A computer apparatus runs a hydraulic model using real-time or near-real-time data from an Automated or Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), to improve model accuracy, particularly by obtaining more accurate, higher-resolution water demand values for service nodes in the model. Improving the accuracy of water demand calculation for the service nodes in the model stems from an improved technique that more accurately determines which consumption points in the water distribution system should be associated with each service node and from the use of real-time or near-real-time consumption data. The computer apparatus uses the water demand values to improve the accuracy and resolution of its water flow and pressure estimates. In turn, the improved flow and pressure estimation provides for more accurate control, e.g., pumping or valve control, flushing control or scheduling, leak detection, step testing, etc.

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