本文讨论了当今水务行业面临的两个最紧迫的问题，即提供优质的客户服务和实施提供该服务所需的信息技术（IT）。一种解决方案是将IT和其他功能外包给应用程序服务提供商（ASP）。ASP合作伙伴不仅可以以较低的成本提供硬件、软件和网络管理，还可以承担计费、汇款和客户信息系统等操作。将非核心活动外包可以让公用事业公司将他们的时间、专业知识和资源投入到他们做得最好的事情上。其他趋势也在改变水行业的经营方式。 网站提供了一个在线市场，提供包括采购在内的全方位水和废水处理服务。私有化、合并和收购已被证明是公用事业公司在保持优质服务的同时削减成本的可行选择。包括24个参考文献，表1。

This paper discusses two of the most pressing issues facing the water industry today, providing superior customer service and implementing the information technology (IT) needed to deliver that service. One solution is to outsource IT and other functions to application service providers (ASPs). Not only can an ASP partner deliver hardware, software, and network administration at lower costs, it can also take on such operations as billing, remittance, and customer information systems. Outsourcing noncore activities allows utilities to devote their time, expertise, and resources to the things they do best. Other trends are also changing the way the water industry does business. Web sites provide an online marketplace that offer a full range of water and wastewater services, including procurement. Privatization, mergers and acquisitions have proved to be viable options for utilities seeking to cut costs while maintaining quality service. Includes 24 references, table.