The world is waking up to the benefits of IT/OT convergence. Businesses the world over are catching on to the idea of combining data from information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems into a single information-driven environment. The theory at work is that IT/OT convergence is beneficial across the industry as optimising data increases productivity and efficiency in industrial environments. Combining the technologies is a daunting task, and since IT/OT convergence is an emerging concept no best practice has yet been established.
IT/OT convergence is complex and requires very specific elements in order to integrate and execute effectively. The reality is that IT and OT are segmented and managed independently by different teams, the result being that they operate in silos. IT is generally being advanced by developments in analytics and machine learning while OT teams are exploring technology that is capable of delivering the level of real-time insights that it requires.
IT/OT convergence is defined as the integration of information technology (IT) systems used for data-centric computing with operational technology (OT) systems used to monitor events, processes and devices and make adjustments in enterprise and industrial operations. The question is, how can you integrate departments and combine systems with the least possible disruption with regards to a business’s current IT systems and operations?
The big five of IT/OT convergence tips according to The Internet of Things Agenda (Tech Target):
- Educate yourself on IT/OT convergence, the challenges, and benefits that come with combining the two parts of your business. Putting your leaders in positions where they feel enabled to take on a change can lead to higher success rates.
- Communication with key players is essential. Make this unification as simple as possible by being transparent and open to adjustment. As IT and OT entities are vastly segmented, effective internal communication between teams is essential to ensure success.
- Create a plan where all parties contribute. Make effective use of this plan by reviewing it often with team members from the top and the bottom of the team organizational chart. Most importantly, evaluate and make changes to your plan as needed.
- Be open to change and accept new processes and trainings that will inevitably come.
- Keep a positive mindset and work together to make this change work. While this change is elaborate, it is both inevitable and necessary given the rapid evolution of the industry — so while it is no easy feat, embrace the shift and adapt to challenges as they come.
Happy Telecom understands the importance of IT/OT convergence. Get in touch with Happy Telecom for all your IT needs. Call 0800 285 1533 or email sales@happytelecom.co.uk.