The IT/OT Executive Series is intended for executives, directors and managers who are embarking on initiatives or projects involving Information & Operational Technology (IT/OT) and want to understand the underlying terminologies, technologies and major considerations for implementing these complex systems.

Many IT/OT projects overlook the holistic importance of properly instrumenting systems, since the focus is typically on the measurement that is used to control the system rather than other measurements needed to maintain, optimize and manage performance. This article discusses key considerations when embarking on initiatives or projects with respect to instrumentation.

Perhaps one of the single most important considerations in any modern IT/OT system deployment is networking. This article shares a few guiding principles that can be applied to IT/OT projects when it comes to networking, including the architecture/infrastructure, monitoring, standards and hardware.

Infrastructure and operational security should be top of mind for IT/OT professionals when embarking on modernization or greenfield projects today. “Defense-in-depth” is the phrase used by many as the holistic approach to IT/OT security. This article presents the key elements to discuss and consider with your IT/OT team or service provider around security.

HMIs play a large role in successful plant or facility operation. A good HMI, built with the right design principles, can enable all operators, no matter what skill level, to improve plant performance by more accurately assessing situations and more quickly taking action.