The convergence of Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) has become one of the most transformative trends in industries such as manufacturing, energy, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and beyond. As automation technologies in the industrial sector evolve, the once-clear distinction between OT and IT systems is rapidly diminishing. This fusion of traditionally separate realms is unlocking new levels of efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and operational agility.
A key enabler of this convergence is digital transformation and advances in technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and big data. The merging of IT and OT enables a seamless flow of data between the digital and physical worlds, bridging the gap between data management systems and industrial operations. Among the platforms leading this transformation is Stratodesk NoTouch OS, an operating system designed to optimize and secure devices such as industrial thin clients, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and edge devices. In this article, we will explore the growing integration of OT and IT, and how Stratodesk NoTouch OS can deliver substantial benefits across industrial environments.
The Growing Convergence of OT and IT
Historically, OT systems have focused on the control and monitoring of industrial processes, such as machine operations, robotics, and automated workflows. These systems include Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and Industrial Control Systems (ICS). On the other hand, IT systems are responsible for processing, storing, and communicating data across enterprise applications, cloud services, and business systems. However, as industries increasingly adopt Industrial IoT (IIoT) technologies and smart factory concepts, the line between IT and OT is becoming increasingly blurred. Today, it is common for industrial environments to integrate real-time data from OT devices with IT systems that enable analytics, cloud computing, and enterprise resource planning (ERP). This convergence allows businesses to derive deeper insights from data, optimize processes, enhance predictive maintenance, and improve overall efficiency.
Key Drivers of IT and OT Convergence:
- Real-Time Data Sharing: The ability to gather real-time data from OT devices (e.g., sensors, actuators) and transmit it to IT systems for advanced analytics and decision-making.
- Edge Computing: The use of edge devices to process data locally, reducing latency and enabling faster, more autonomous decision-making within industrial processes.
- Centralized Management: The integration of IT and OT systems allows for a unified management approach, making it easier to monitor, secure, and control all devices, regardless of whether they are part of the OT or IT infrastructure.
- Security Integration: By leveraging IT security best practices in OT systems, businesses can mitigate the growing risks of cyberattacks, ensuring that critical infrastructure remains protected.
Types of IT/OT convergence
IT/OT convergence is a complex and multifaceted initiative, rather than a one-size-fits-all concept. Once organizations identify their specific needs and objectives, they can qualify or disqualify the technologies that will best satisfy their convergence requirements.
The convergence process encompasses three key areas—physical, software, and organizational—each addressing different elements of integration. This includes connecting devices, enabling seamless data exchange, and aligning organizational workflows.
Physical Convergence
Physical convergence is a core aspect of IT/OT integration, where OT devices are directly connected to IT networks. This often requires upgrading or retrofitting legacy OT equipment to enable connectivity. With this approach, OT devices equipped with connectivity features can send data directly to IT systems for analysis and decision-making.
Software Convergence
Software convergence facilitates the integration of OT data with IT systems, ensuring smooth information flow. Data from OT systems is collected and processed by IT systems, enhancing operational efficiency. This integration is vital for real-time data processing, which supports better decision-making and operational control.
Organizational Convergence
Organizational convergence focuses on aligning the workflows of IT and OT departments to create a unified operational system. Although IT and OT functions can operate independently, consistent information sharing is critical. This process involves refining business operations to ensure IT and OT support and enhance each other’s roles, ultimately fostering improved communication and collaboration.
Keep an eye out for part two! Coming soon.
