Picture this: Your operational technology (OT) teams have critical real-time data about equipment performance, but your IT teams can't access it for analysis. Meanwhile, business systems hold valuable context that could prevent downtime, but it never reaches your operators. Sound familiar?
This divide between information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) isn't just an organizational challenge – it's costing industrial companies millions in missed opportunities, preventable downtime, and operational inefficiency. The traditional separation between these worlds made sense when they served entirely different purposes. Today, it's a barrier to digital transformation.
The Third Piece of the Puzzle: Engineering Technology (ET)
But there's more to this story than just IT and OT. Engineering technology (ET) – the systems and data that help you understand questions like "where?" and "what equipment do we have right now?" – adds another critical dimension. When you bring ET into the picture alongside IT and OT, you unlock new possibilities for operational excellence.
Take the example of a leading petrochemical enterprise that transformed their operations using CONNECT. By combining IT, OT, and ET data in a unified platform, they achieved near-perfect reliability and minimized waiting time for field workers. The result? Lower operational costs than their competitors and the ability to scale these improvements across multiple facilities.
How CONNECT Makes Convergence Work
CONNECT doesn't just connect systems – it creates an intelligent fabric that weaves together all three technological domains:
From the OT side, CONNECT securely collects real-time operational data from your equipment, control systems, and sensors. This isn't just raw numbers – it's the pulse of your operations.
From IT, it incorporates business context, enterprise systems, and analytical capabilities. This adds the "why" to your operational data.
And from ET, it brings in critical engineering and asset information, adding the spatial and technical context that makes data truly actionable.
Real Results from Real Convergence
The power of this convergence becomes clear in practice. Schneider Electric's Lexington Smart Factory showcases what's possible when you truly unite these systems:
- Reduced manual paperwork by 90%
- Decreased critical system downtime by 5%
- Achieved ROI in less than 6 months
- Enhanced workforce mobility and decision-making
The Command Center Revolution
When properly implemented, IT/OT/ET convergence through CONNECT creates something more than a monitoring center – it creates a true command center. Unlike traditional control towers that focus on single domains, CONNECT-powered command centers enable:
- Multi-domain visibility and control
- Proactive issue prevention
- Cross-functional efficiency
- Automated response capabilities
- Forward-looking operational insights
Your Path to Convergence
The journey to IT/OT/ET convergence doesn't have to be overwhelming. CONNECT provides a secure, scalable platform that respects the unique requirements of each domain while enabling seamless integration. Start with your most pressing challenges and expand as you see results.
Ready to bridge the gap between your IT, OT, and ET systems? Our experts can show you how to achieve meaningful convergence that drives real business value.