Self-Assessment as an Instrument for Strengthening the Sustainability of Water Supply Service Providers in Small Communities

Abstract

Abstract: The study focuses on researching and practically addressing the issue of enhancing the sustainability of enterprises that provide centralized water supply services in rural communities, settlements, and small towns. The relevance of the research is driven by the need to ensure universal access to drinking water for all, especially given the significant disparity between urban and rural populations in terms of centralized water supply coverage, as well as the need to strengthen the managerial and financial capacity of local utility enterprises. The aim of the study is to identify tools for improving the sustainability of drinking water supply system management in rural communities, settlements, and small towns through the adaptation and implementation of a self-assessment tool for service providers. The research applies a systematic approach, methods of comparative analysis, and generalization of international experience. The approaches were adapted to the conditions of Ukrainian communities. Results. A localized self-assessment tool for water supply enterprises in small communities has been developed, combining universal management areas with functional directions specific to water supply and wastewater services. The tool contributes to improving the level of strategic thinking and the ability of enterprises to set development priorities based on objective data. It was determined that the implementation of the self-assessment procedure enables the systematization of management processes, increases accountability, and improves communication between the water supply service provider, the local self-government body, and consumers. Conclusions. The use of the adapted self-assessment tool for water supply service providers provides a practical foundation for implementing sustainable development principles at the local level. The methodology allows for the objective identification of management strengths and weaknesses and the improvement of service quality. The research results can be applied in the strategic planning of community development and the preparation of local programs for water supply system modernization. The proposed approach lays the groundwork for the creation of sustainable, economically viable, and socially responsible drinking water supply systems. Keywords: sustainable development, water supply, self-assessment, management practices, governance, utility enterprise, local self-government, efficiency, resilience, planning.