IT/OT convergence needs conflict resolution from both sides

Headnote

Information technology (IT) and operations technology (OT) are very different organizations that have begun to converge and they must start resolving their issues. Three tips for reducing potential conflict are highlighted.

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KEY CONCEPTS

Information technology (IT) and operations technology (OT) have different goals and agenda, but they need to work together in today's modern environment.

IT's main priority is protecting data and company assets and OT's main priority is making sure work processes are not hampered or slowed.

Strategic alignment, a joint task force, and pilot projects are three ways to get the two sides to work together and resolve potential conflicts.

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What other methods/strategies could be used to get the IT and OT to work together?

Information technology (IT) and operations technology (OT) are both responsible for resolving potential cybersecurity risks. However, both groups have different approaches and mindsets on the topic that are incompatible when they are brought together, which can led to conflict.

Pre-internet, the line between IT and OT was clear. The line has been blurred as technology has brought connectivity to nearly every device on the plant floor and in field locations. That enhanced connectivity is connecting IT and OT in new ways and, as a result, they are starting to converge.

Instead of conflicting with one another, which has been the standard mindset, they must start resolving their issues for their sake and the sake of the company as a whole.

Resisting convergence

IT and OT are resisting convergence happening all around them, said Luigi De Bernardini, chief executive of Autoware, a manufacturing execution system (MES) and smart manufacturing automation firm in Italy. When working with clients in large manufacturing automation projects he found that, "Many manufacturers still see strong resistance to bringing information and operational technologies together, with mistrust coming from both sides."

De Bernardini said that must change. "Continuing to operate separately not only slows the adoption of solutions based on technologies that fall outside of industrial control system (ICS) operations' comfort zone, but also exposes companies to fault or security risks that could significantly impact production."

Different viewpoints

IT and...