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IT/OT Convergence - From IT to OT: Leverage Advanced IT Maturity for Your OT Modernization
IT/OT convergence is becoming increasingly important for companies aiming to stay competitive in a dynamic economic environment. The seamless integration of IT and OT systems forms the foundation for unlocking the full potential of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). By connecting OT data sources with real-time analytics capabilities, organizations can significantly enhance operational efficiency and transparency, improve planning and forecasting accuracy, and strengthen decision-making quality.
At the same time, IT/OT convergence offers the potential to create valuable synergies, and drive innovation. This convergence benefits from the maturity of IT in areas such as security, data management, automation, and infrastructure. As a result, IT/OT convergence lays a strong foundation for sustainable growth and long-term success.
What Potential Can Be Unlocked Through IT/OT Convergence?
IT/OT convergence offers significant potential for companies, including process optimization and cost reduction through more efficient workflows and reduced downtime. An integrated security strategy, leveraging IT security expertise, enhances threat detection and mitigation. Moreover, convergence drives innovation and expands data utilization, enabling more informed decision-making and opening up new business opportunities.
What Challenges Do Companies Face with IT/OT Convergence?
Companies face several key challenges when implementing IT/OT convergence. These include the technical complexity of integrating diverse systems, technologies, and protocols, as well as cultural differences between IT and OT teams. Convergence also increases the potential attack surface for cyber threats, as both IT and OT systems are vulnerable. Businesses must therefore develop comprehensive security strategies that address both physical and cyber threats.
What Are the Key Success Factors for IT/OT Convergence?
Successful IT/OT convergence requires clear governance structures and collaborative teams that include both IT and OT experts. Effective communication, regularly highlighting shared benefits, and physical proximity are key factors for achieving "human-level" convergence. To leverage modern technologies such as IoT and AI, a unified, cross-functional architecture and a flexible infrastructure are essential to harness the strengths of both worlds.
Coexistence of IT and OT requires clearly defined roles and shared processes. We support CIOs in shaping this integration under a unifying vision and strategy.
Martin Stephany | CIO Advisory
4C Study: "Effective Governance in IT/OT Convergence"
Discover in our study the growing importance of IT/OT convergence. Based on in-depth interviews with 31 CIOs and IT/OT leaders, the study highlights key aspects of effective governance in the context of IT/OT convergence.
Until now, convergence efforts have mainly focused on IT security. However, our study shows that the current maturity level of IT/OT convergence implementation varies significantly across organizations. The IT/OT Governance Framework, developed from the interview findings, outlines strategic questions, implementation components, and practical recommendations, offering clear guidance for effective governance.
Download our study to learn more about IT/OT convergence and discover how to fully leverage its potential in your organization.
Also, read the insightful article on our study published by CIO Magazine.
Also, read the insightful article on our study published by CIO Magazine.
Readiness Assessment - Successfully Implement IT/OT Convergence
Our Readiness Assessment offers more than just a status quo analysis - it provides in-depth insights into optimization potential and possible risks.
By analyzing the maturity level of your IT/OT convergence implementation, we identify opportunities to increase efficiency and demonstrate how to strategically align IT and OT. Gain a competitive edge and harness the innovative power of IT to future-proof your OT!
Six Implementation Recommendations from the IT/OT Governance Framework
The IT/OT Governance Framework developed in our study consolidates strategic considerations, implementation building blocks, and actionable recommendations to drive effective governance.
Secure Top Management Support
Objectives, strategies, and implementation frameworks should be clearly driven by leadership and transparently communicated. This signals that IT/OT convergence is a company-wide priority and helps prevent conflicts between IT and OT.
Leverage Security as a Driving Force
The risk of cyberattacks in OT environments will continue to grow. Therefore, securing OT systems is paramount. Security should be treated not just as a necessity, but also as a key enabler of IT/OT convergence.
Appoint a Central OT Coordinator
Often, each production site has its own plant manager, making cross-functional coordination challenging. A central OT coordinator should be appointed to act as a counterpart to the CIO and facilitate collaboration.
Promote Proximity Between IT and OT Teams
Strengthening the physical and organizational proximity between IT and OT teams helps build mutual understanding and trust, enabling more responsive collaboration.
Continuously Highlight Added Value
OT teams are often skeptical of convergence and may not see immediate benefits. Demonstrating tangible added value-such as cost savings through real-world use cases-can help increase acceptance and engagement.
Adopt a Gradual and Iterative Approach
Implementing IT/OT convergence should be approached step-by-step to ensure stakeholder involvement. Especially OT employees should not feel overwhelmed by imposed IT processes. It is advisable to start with open and willing OT sites to build momentum.
Why 4C?
As a management consultancy with extensive experience in both IT and OT domains, we are your ideal partner to drive integration forward. Within our dedicated focus area "IT/OT Convergence", we support decision-makers and innovators, particularly in the areas of governance, operationalization, and institutionalization of essential functions, roles, and responsibilities in both IT and OT organizations. Reach out to us to lay the foundation for your IT/OT convergence journey.
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