In the heart of West Suriname, where infrastructure challenges and environmental demands converge, a water utility is setting a powerful example for the future. SWM West Suriname has taken a bold step in modernizing its operations—transitioning from paper-based workflows to real-time digital mapping—through a transformative ArcGIS Online training delivered by Lybra Training, Coaching & Consulting N.V., in partnership with GISsat N.V., Esri’s official distributor in Suriname.
From Paper to Precision: Embracing Smart Utility Workflows
The training provided SWM’s field and technical teams with hands-on skills to digitize and streamline their operations. Participants learned how to use mobile applications such as ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey123 to collect and validate field data in real time. They also explored how to turn this data into dynamic visual insights through ArcGIS Dashboards.
This new end-to-end workflow—from data collection and quality control to real-time visualization—marks a shift from disconnected spreadsheets and manual reporting to smarter, faster decision-making. Now, field staff can collect and sync data instantly using mobile devices, while managers gain real-time insights into infrastructure status, maintenance needs, and service coverage at a glance.
“Leren omgaan met ArcGIS, de voordelen en mogelijkheden ervan. Met deze applicatie kan men veel sneller een probleem opsporen en binnen mum van tijd oplossen.”
“Learning how to use ArcGIS, its benefits and possibilities. With this application, you can detect a problem much faster and solve it in no time.”
More Than Software: Building a Spatial Mindset
The training emphasized more than just tools. It focused on cultivating a spatial mindset—encouraging participants to analyze patterns, identify data gaps, and think critically about how location-based data can support daily decisions. This approach aligns with international best practices where GIS supports:
- Asset inventory and maintenance planning
- Leak detection and hydraulic modeling
- Service territory mapping and planning
- Emergency response and outage tracking
By applying these techniques, water utilities like SWM can significantly reduce downtime, allocate resources more efficiently, and enhance customer satisfaction.
“Het programma biedt duidelijke en gestructureerde uitleg, toegankelijke trainers en praktische voorbeelden die je echt verder helpen in de praktijk. Je leert niet alleen de theorie, maar ook hoe je deze direct toepast. Ideaal voor iedereen die zijn kennis wil verdiepen en effectief aan de slag wil gaan.”
“The program offers clear and structured explanations, approachable trainers, and practical examples that truly help in practice. You don’t just learn the theory—you also learn how to apply it directly. Ideal for anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge and get to work effectively.”
Suriname’s GIS Evolution: A Broader Movement
SWM’s success is part of a growing national trend. Across sectors such as energy, public works, and environmental monitoring, Suriname is embracing GIS as a foundation for innovation and inter-agency coordination.
Government institutions are increasingly adopting centralized spatial data platforms, promoting greater transparency and data-driven governance. Whether managing infrastructure permits, land use, or environmental indicators, GIS is becoming a vital tool for the country’s digital future.
As a leader in geospatial training and consulting, Lybra—together with GISsat N.V.—remains committed to supporting this evolution by building local capacity and tailoring global GIS standards to the unique needs of Suriname.
Looking Ahead: A Smarter Future for SWM
The ArcGIS Online training is just the beginning for SWM West Suriname. With a more technically skilled workforce, the utility is now better equipped to expand its data collection initiatives, integrate historical infrastructure data, and embed GIS into core planning and maintenance processes.
“De trainers waren professioneel, enthousiast en goed voorbereid. Ze legden alles duidelijk uit en creëerden een prettige en interactieve leeromgeving. Hun kennis en manier van presenteren hebben de training extra waardevol gemaakt.”
“The trainers were professional, enthusiastic, and well-prepared. They explained everything clearly and created a pleasant, interactive learning environment. Their knowledge and presentation style made the training especially valuable.”
This initiative highlights how targeted training, the right technology, and strong partnerships can accelerate digital transformation—even in remote or resource-constrained settings. As Suriname continues to grow, projects like this pave the way for smarter, more sustainable public services.
Below is a short teaser of this session:
Don’t miss this opportunity to shape your future – reserve your spot now!
