Performance assessment has been one of the hottest topics in the water industry in the past decade. In that period, the International Water Association has played a key role, and the performance indicators systems developed for drinking water and wastewater utilities have become a reference worldwide. PI08 will be the first international conference supported by IWA on performance indicators and benchmarking, and will be held in Valencia, Spain, in March 2008.

The conference will also represent the final stage of Action COST C18, a network of relevant European experts on the topic, funded by the EU. Pi08 will be an opportunity to present the result of four years of fruitful cooperation, discussion and research.

Benchmarking and performance indicators are already a reality in many places in the world. That is why I would like to invite you to participate in PI08, whether you are presenting the results of your research, your experience in the field of performance assessment, or simply meeting some of the foremost international experts while discussing and sharing their views on the topic.

Valencia will be awaiting you next March. The city will be at its best after hosting the America's Cup in 2007, and just a few days before one of the largest festivals in Spain, the "Fallas". I truly hope that you will be able to join us for what, I am positive, will be a fruitful and enjoyable experience.


Enrique Cabrera Jr.