Key considerations include water quality parameters, treatment objectives (e.g. potable water, irrigation, discharge standards), treatment processes (physical, chemical, biological), site constraints, energy consumption, waste management, regulatory compliance, and community needs.

Reliability and resilience are ensured through redundancy in critical components, robust design practices, backup systems (e.g. generators, standby pumps), emergency response plans, asset management strategies, continuous monitoring and optimization, and proactive risk assessment and mitigation measures.

Sustainability principles are incorporated through the use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient technologies, resource recovery (e.g. biogas generation, nutrient recycling), green infrastructure practices, water reuse and conservation measures, lifecycle cost analysis, and stakeholder engagement in decision-making processes.

Planning for the proper handling, treatment, and disposal of sludge, by-products, and other residues generated during the treatment process is essential to minimize environmental impact and comply with regulations.