The fusion of data, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) platforms (among others) into a singular integrated data, AI + IoT platform will reshape many business' operational landscape; presenting IT and operations managers, as well as anyone that relies on performance metrics to make decisions, with the insights and tools they need to improve any aspect of their roles.
Whilst the vision might be there, it's often difficult to know how to articulate the short-term view and quick wins that the technology will provide - the bit that's critical in proving an ROI and winning business support for novel, transformative technology.
The 5 universal quick wins
Whilst there are likely to be more based on the individual use case and goals that you're applying, there are some quick wins that are universal:
- Accurate, Real-Time Data Visualization + Reporting: One of the most impactful benefits is the ability to visualise critical metrics in real-time accurately and report on them, and wider business goals, in a single click. Integrated data, AI + IoT platforms offer complete interoperability and are able to extract the data you need from any technology. This means that data from across your business can be consolidated and be made accessible at anytime via the platform, with the option to build in wider functionality to push these insights to anything that's connected. This capability streamlines operations, replacing the need for multiple BI, embedded and analytics platforms, and gives anyone access to critical data and insights in the process.
- Cost + Resource Optimisation (provable, measurable ROI!): By automating routine processes and enhancing operational efficiencies, the platform offers significant cost savings. It can reduce wastage, overspill and resource usage, as well as minimising errors and minimising the need for human intervention or inspection. What's more, it'll track operational improvement for you - you don't need to calculate the benefit, it'll do it for you.
- Integration of Siloed + Legacy Technologies: Integrated data, AI, and IoT platforms can connect with anything, including previously siloed technologies and locked-out legacy systems. This enables you to not only collect more data and share it wider, enhancing collaboration and streamlining operations, but unblock further technological enhancement all whilst retaining existing investments and processes. With this functionality being performed by the platform, it can also reduce and eliminate the dependence on existing ETL, iPaaS, integration, and M2M software.
- Rapid Solution Development + Automations: The platform empowers businesses to develop custom solutions, rapidly. Initially this can be as simple as adding a button to dashboards that enables people to switch off failing machinery to protect it and personnel, or scaling existing solutions across other sites, but over time can be developed to a full set of remote controls alongside guidance generated from the use of machine learning and predictive analytics, or even automating these optimisations, pushing data and instructions to any interconnected technology. This adaptability replaces the need for separate automation, workflow, IoT, application development, and data science platforms.
- Create a Hybrid, Unified Industrial Technology Ecosystem: A pivotal quick win is the creation of a unified industrial technology ecosystem. Integrating all OT, IT, and third-party systems, the platform forms a hybrid structure robust enough for future expansions and any future technological integrations. This unification takes the strain off IT and operations teams, streamlines tech stacks, enhances security, and facilitates AI-led decision-making across the enterprise, positioning businesses to leverage advanced capabilities built into the platform effectively.
Want to find out more about how to pick an integrated data, AI + IoT platform? These articles might help:
Top IoT Platforms: A Quick Guide
Additional (maybe not quite so) quick wins
Some other universal wins might take a little longer to materialise or be intangible, only showing over a longer period (see safety, for example, where result will show in longer term trends), but they're there just beneath the surface:
- Enhanced Operational Agility: Integrated platforms significantly enhance operational agility. Real-time analytics and AI-driven insights enable businesses to identify inefficiencies and address them promptly. This allows for the rapid integration and adoption of any future technologies, as well as agility to adopt to operational challenges and changing market conditions.
- Safety + Compliance Improvements: The use of IoT sensors and AI in monitoring operational conditions not only improves workplace safety but also ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Predictive maintenance and real-time hazard detection reduces the risk of accidents, making the workplace safer for employees.
- Scalability for Future Growth: The scalable nature of integrated platforms is a significant advantage. It allows businesses to expand their operations without the need for substantial additional investments in new technologies. This scalability is crucial for businesses looking to explore new markets or adapt to evolving industry trends.
Integrated data, AI + IoT platform is not just a technological upgrade; it's a strategic transformation essential for modern industrial operations.
The platform offers a range of quick wins - from enhanced decision-making capabilities and operational efficiencies to cost savings and improved safety standards.
By adopting this integrated approach, businesses are not only optimising their current operations but are also setting the stage for future growth and innovation in an increasingly connected and data-driven world.
Speak to us today to explore what you can achieve, quickly