Why the convergence of IT, OT is not just about tech

The convergence of IT and OT goes far beyond a simple technical integration – it is a strategic, operational and cultural change that holds the potential to shape the future of organisations.

DIGITAL transformation is revolutionising industries by unraveling unparalleled opportunities for efficiency and innovation.

A significant shift leading this revolution is information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) convergence, which is the integration of IT systems used for data-centric tasks with OT systems used for monitoring and controlling physical devices and processes.

This integration significantly impacts the OT asset management lifecycle.

However, the convergence of IT and OT goes far beyond a simple technical integration.

It is a strategic, operational and cultural change that holds the potential to shape the future of organisations.

IT and OT convergence more than just technological

While IT and OT convergence has a major technological component, it is not purely technical.

The effective integration of IT systems with OT systems involves more than just rolling out new technology and hoping things will work smoothly.

It is a strategic business decision that requires a carefully planned and executed transformation programme.

This programme typically encompasses changes in the strategy, business processes, skills and culture to successfully leverage the power of both IT and OT.

Rather than seeing IT and OT convergence as a mere technology project, the organisation should regard it as a strategic transformation that aligns with its overall business objectives.

Decisions around this convergence should align with the company’s strategy, and the potential benefits of convergence – such as increased throughput, improved safety and greater visibility in operations – should be clearly identified and linked to strategic objectives.

Operational alignment

Operationally, the convergence of IT and OT often necessitates changes to processes and workflows to effectively leverage the newly integrated environment and maintain seamless information flows.

There must be standardisations or modifications in the processes for maintaining systems, managing changes, responding to incidents and safeguarding the continuity of operations.

Both the IT and OT teams need to understand each other’s workflows, procedures and protocols and adapt to each other’s operational needs.

Human factors also play significant roles in the IT and OT convergence.

Culturally, IT and OT have traditionally had different work cultures, attitudes to risk and ways of working.

Bridging this cultural divide requires clear communication, education and change management.

The convergence often requires a new blend of skills – or “purple people” who understand both the IT and OT worlds.

The organisation may also need to upskill and re-skill existing staff or hire new personnel with the requisite skills.

Certain key success factors should be considered for strategic IT and OT convergence to be effective:

> Effective leadership with a clear vision aligns the convergence with the organisation’s strategic objectives and guides the transformation journey.

> Fostering a collaborative culture bridges the cultural divide and encourages mutual understanding between the IT and OT teams.

> Skill development and training are crucial to equip the workforce with the necessary skills for a smooth transition.

> Harnessing data integration and analytics transforms raw data into actionable insights to drive efficiency and decision-making.

> Robust cybersecurity controls protect the integrated system from potential cyber threats.

> Flexible and scalable infrastructure facilitates adaptability to evolving technologies and growth.

> Compliance with regulatory standards helps the organisation prevent potential violations and avoid penalties.

> Effective change management – involving communication, training and addressing resistance to change – drives a smoother transformation.

As we move further into the digital age, IT and OT convergence is becoming less of an option and more of a requirement for companies that wish to remain competitive.

However, it is important to recognise that this transformation is more than just a technical project.

By recognising the strategic, operational and human aspects of this convergence, businesses can more effectively navigate this transformation and enjoy the benefits of improved efficiency, visibility and decision-making that come with a coherent IT and OT environment.

Doing so also helps them enhance resilience and innovativeness to better face the exciting challenges of tomorrow.