Tri Tech Automation has had many conversations about digital transformation with clients in the past year. Many have expressed excitement about beginning the journey and unlocking untold possibilities of tools like machine learning and artificial intelligence they’ve heard so much about. That excitement is warranted, as the benefits of digital transformation are clear. But a successful digital transformation comes with two very important prerequisites: careful planning and strategic execution.
In this article, we will outline the three foundational elements any manufacturer must prioritize to see the full benefits of a successful digital transformation. These are areas of expertise and specialization for Tri Tech Automation, and the first three priorities we take on when we kick off a digital transformation journey for any client.
Priority #1: Connecting Operational Technology (OT) Data
The first step of digital transformation in manufacturing is connecting data from operational technology (OT) systems. Manufacturing facilities are equipped with sensors, machinery, and other equipment that generate vast amounts of data. However, much of this data remains siloed.
One of the biggest promises of digital transformation is real-time insights that enable better-informed decisions. That requires the following steps to effectively integrate OT data:
- Establish connectivity between legacy systems and modern infrastructure.
- Employ industrial protocols and middleware to enable seamless data collection. This includes transitioning from legacy protocols to modern IoT protocols such as MQTT or OPC-UA.
- Utilize edge tools, such as Rockwell Automation’s Optix or Red Lion FlexEdge, as gateways between legacy systems and Industrial DataOps solutions like HighByte’s Intelligence Hub or cloud platforms like Rockwell’s FactoryTalk DataMosaix or AVEVA Connect.
Priority #2: Contextualizing and Normalizing Data
The accessibility of data is important, but it doesn’t stop there. The data must be enriched with context to ensure its relationships and operational relevance are clear. Thankfully, systematic architectures, Like Unified Namespace (UNS), exist to ensure data is organized and meaningful. Data normalization also plays a key role in aligning operations and events. Standardizing data formats across sources help manufacturers:
- Simplify data analysis.
- Enable interoperability between systems.
- Provide a consistent foundation for AI and machine learning applications.
Robust historian solutions, like Canary Labs, SEEQ, or TimeScale, do an exceptional job supporting contextualization and data alignment to maximize functionality while minimizing challenges.
Priority #3: IT/OT Convergence
Successful digital transformation in manufacturing requires the convergence of the organization’s IT and OT systems. This alignment brings insights from the plant floor to enterprise decision makers, bridging the gap between the two and eliminating the hunches, educated guesses, and assumptions that used to fill it.
IT/OT convergence will:
- Unify data streams for more cohesive operations
- Enable integrated protocols to enhance cybersecurity
- Streamline workflows and drastically reduce redundancies
Digital Transformation in Manufacturing is a Strategic Evolution
As we’ve written in the past, digital transformation in manufacturing isn’t just a technology upgrade; it’s a strategic evolution that will redefine what’s possible for your company. By prioritizing the items in this article, manufacturers can unlock unprecedented efficiencies and opportunities—unveiling their Hidden Factory.
Tri Tech Automation is helping manufacturers through this digital transformation journey, and we can guide you through it too. We’ll help define the gaps and ensure your digital transformation journey is built on the most solid foundation possible. It all starts with a conversation.