Aquafin

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Aquafin is responsible for collecting wastewater from Flemish municipalities and treating it before releasing it back into nature. The purification process generates various types of waste that must be transported from Aquafin’s facilities to specialized waste processors—both internal and external.

Architecture and functional design of the DVA application

Context & Challenge

Currently, Aquafin organizes over 7,000 waste transports per month. To comply with OVAM regulations, the company must generate electronic waybills, assign transports based on waste type, and ensure proper tracking from origin to delivery at the waste processor.

Previously, Aquafin relied on a legacy system supplemented by Excel spreadsheets, email communication, and printed documents. After a presentation by Pencil42 outlining a strategic approach to these challenges, Aquafin chose Pencil42 to reinforce its delivery team.

Today, the integrated DVA (Digitale Vervoers- en Afvaladministratie) application manages the complexities of waste transportation. DVA interfaces with multiple other systems, and its development coincides with Aquafin’s broader transition from AS/400 legacy systems to a unified SAP environment— which felt like keeping the engine running while converting the vehicle.

With nearly 400 internal technical users, DVA has become a critical component of Aquafin’s water purification operations.

 

Key aspects of the delivered architecture

Listen Before We Speak

Since DVA interacted with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, it was essential to understand the challenges and timelines of other project teams. Our team was embedded within the overall solution architecture, and one of our core strengths proved to be the open, trusted relationships we built with frontline staff. This combination enabled us to set realistic goals and deliver on time.

Think Before We Act

The transition from AS/400 to SAP posed a major challenge. While existing processes were well understood in AS/400, the SAP implementation was still evolving. This situation demanded proactive architectural planning, a strong focus on integration, and a design that isolated DVA from changes in underlying systems. Pencil42 actively contributed to shaping this architectural strategy.

Draw Before We Deliver

We succeeded in communicating clearly with business stakeholders through well-designed and easy-to-understand models. These models supported precise functional specifications and well-documented software. Pencil42’s structured approach proved to be a key success factor in the delivery of DVA.

 

Role of Pencil42

A small team delivering big results.

Pencil42 played an active role in the architecture and functional design of the DVA application. Our focus on integration and anticipation of future changes in underlying systems ensured long-term stability. We also contributed to the broader solution architecture. Transparent communication, high-quality deliverables, and strong customer satisfaction established Pencil42 as a trusted partner for Aquafin.

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