Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) have long existed, however in separate spheres. With the advent of technology and the improved advancements in data center solutions company, everything is connected with sensors. With such connectivity, copious amount of data is collected, which is then stored on a cloud platform for analysis to ensure better decision making. With the advent of data center solutions, Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT), which have had limited synergy, will work together. The bridge between IT and OT can now be narrowed and once they join forces, several benefits of process automation and business intelligence will be on the rise.

So what is IT-OT convergence? IT-OT convergence is the integration of information technology and operational technology systems – to handle computing and data processing and manage industrial operations. Many organizations are opting for such holistic data center solutions to optimize the collection, processing and storing data.

How is this fusion done? This is achieved through the four means:

• Use of wireless technology
• Predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime
• Real-time decision making
• Mission critical data management

Why go in for the convergence? With so many processes involved, IT-OT gives organizations a strong foundation. The advantages are many, but to name a few-

• Simplified Process Control – The IOT trends replace bulky manufacturing systems and the process associated with them. These processes are distributed over IT and OT to better track inventory, maintenance of production process and quality control. Each department runs as a separate entity to optimize the manufacturing processes.

• Real-Time Visibility – With IoT sensors and trends in place, smart devices generate a ton of data. With so much of data, analyzing and cracking any scenario is a child’s play. Aggregating of data from various machines, databases and sensors is now an automated task and the analyzed result is output as a single unit, enabling informed decision making.

• Predictive Maintenance – By digitizing the entire manufacturing process, real time monitoring of machinery and equipment is now possible, thereby eliminating last minute maintenance works. Early signs of trouble are caught and acted on to maximize efficiency.

While all this sounds fancy, the technological advancements to make this a reality have taken long enough. With innovations in this field every single day, here are a few which helps make this convergence a reality:

• Low-code Applications – With minimal code connecting the sensors and machines, these programs allow for non-coders on the OT side create applications for the assembly line.
• Digital Twins – An exact replica of machinery is created digitally to assess how the environmental factors and production cycles affect the quality or productivity of a particular machine.
• Augmented Reality – Augmented reality is applied across sectors today and enables one to remotely monitor factory operations, provide training simulations and assist in complex repairs.
• Edge Computing – Edge computing allows data to be processed in real time, allowing immediate action to be taken.

With these two mammoths coming together, streamlined process, interoperability and optimization is no longer as difficult as it used to be! Here is paving way for a much efficient and competitive environment!