Driving profitability: How to merge IT and OT in the business environment

To achieve business success and scalability, the convergence of multiple tools and systems is essential. Among the most recognized are Information Technologies (IT), which encompass the integration of hardware and software to manage, store, transmit, protect, and process information. At the same time, Operative Technology (OT) comes into play, which implies the automation and control of physical processes in real-time. Although less familiar to non-specialists in the field, OT plays a major role in operational efficiency.

The importance of both technologies is so significant that their convergence, that is, the integration of the systems that manage and control the physical with those that operate in the digital sphere, becomes a key factor in boosting profitability and efficiency.

“IT/OT integration is the end state sought by organizations (most commonly those that are asset intensive) where rather than their separation as technology areas with different domains of authority and responsibility; there is an integrated process and Information flow”.

-Gartner-

The IT/OT fusion for cybersecurity optimization

Traditionally, IT and OT systems have been managed separately, however, knowing the benefits that the merger brings, a paradigm shift has occurred in organizations in recent years.

In terms of cybersecurity, the merger is key to minimizing risks and having greater control of operations, as well as ensuring greater protection in the event that a server or service is compromised.

While this action benefits security in the long run, it also presents a significant challenge that, if not addressed collaboratively, could increase the incidence of cyberattacks exponentially. That being the case, it is important that organizations reinforce their measures, invest in their cybersecurity strategy, and forge alliances with specialists in the industry.

According to the latest Global Cybersecurity Study, Mexico is the Latin American country with the highest number of attacks received. Companies located in the country face cybersecurity threats of two kinds: direct damage to their infrastructure, and attacks on end users or collaborators.

IT/OT convergence for digital transformation

According to a State of Application Strategy Report, the technology trend that generated the most excitement in 2022 was IT/OT convergence, largely because it is a way to drive digital transformation in organizations through:

1. The ability to make decisions in real-time with the use of edge computing: The combination of IT/OT data provides more complete and accurate information, making room for more informed and strategic decision-making.
2. The ability to eliminate unplanned downtime through predictive maintenance: With convergence, organizations can collect and analyze real-time data from operational processes (OT) and combine it with advanced analytics and algorithms (IT) to anticipate potential failures within the teams. This strategic collaboration enables early detection of potential problems and preventative maintenance scheduling, which both reduces repair costs and prevents unplanned outages that affect productivity and operational efficiency.
3. Wireless deployment in all environments: The interconnection of physical and digital systems through wireless networks gives organizations the ability to monitor and control processes in real-time, regardless of the physical environment, thus improving agility, adaptability, and competitiveness in a wide range of industries and applications.
4. The creation of a cybersecurity strategy for a connected operations environment: IT/OT convergence allows for the implementation of stronger cybersecurity measures, protecting both operating systems and information systems from internal and external threats.

How to perform a strategic integration?

Achieving strategic integration between IT and OT systems is essential to optimizing operations and boosting profitability in today’s business environment. To ensure a successful merger, it is essential to have experts in the field who understand the complexities of both areas and how they converge to drive efficiency and cybersecurity.

In this sense, Ikusi’s Industrial Protect services offer a comprehensive solution that ranges from the evaluation and design of the IT/OT integration to implementation and ongoing maintenance. By relying on Ikusi’s experience and knowledge, organizations can ensure that convergence is performed strategically, thus maximizing benefits and minimizing risks.

Learn more about Ikusi’s Industrial Protect services at the following link: https://testing.xplaye.com/ikusi2/mx/servicios/industrial-protect/