Integration of IT and OT

Information and operational technologies need to unify networks and systems with one communication protocol to reap the benefits of a smarter plant floor.

Dec 16th, 2017

Aw 162162 Alignment 54 Pmg

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) forces information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) to collaborate, adding complexity at both the department level and the enterprise computing level, according to a new report from PMMI Business Intelligence, The Evolution of Automation 2017. IIoT, the report concludes, is not just a communications issue but a far bigger strategic proposition.

A collaborative IT/OT environment is evolving, but it will take time, according to 58 percent of the survey’s respondents.

A major concern of increased digitization and connectivity is cybersecurity, and this is an area where almost all respondents agree that IT should be involved—96 percent say IT is responsible for selecting and implementing security solutions. The report does, however, recommend considering partnering with a third-party security firm.

For more information, download the 2017 Evolution of Automation Report.

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