Software für Industriepumpen-Hersteller und Pumpen-Anwendungen

An IIoT project is economically worthwhile if measurable improvements can be achieved through the use of operating and production data. Typical effects include reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs or more efficient production processes. In many cases, economic benefits arise even with clearly defined applications. It is crucial to define the benefits early on and to set up projects in such a way that they can be gradually expanded.

The most common risks associated with IIoT projects include unclear objectives and lack of integration into existing systems. These risks can be reduced by starting projects with clear questions and designing them in a technically clean manner. A step-by-step approach with pilot applications helps to gain experience.

Industrial IoT is neither exclusively an IT nor a purely departmental issue, but an interplay between both sides. Business areas define goals, questions and desired benefits, while IT is responsible for integration, security, and operation. Successful IIoT projects are created where both perspectives are brought together early on. A clear distribution of roles and a common definition of goals are more important than the organizational allocation of the project.

IIoT generally does not require a completely new IT infrastructure. Many IIoT solutions build on existing systems and expand them in a targeted manner. It is important that relevant machine data can be made accessible and connected in a meaningful way. Instead of parallel structures, it is recommended to gradually expand the existing IT landscape in order to create sustainable and integrated solutions.

Cloud and edge computing complement each other in IIoT. Edge components enable data to be processed close to the machine, for example for preprocessing or time-critical functions. Cloud components are often used for analysis, aggregation, integration, and scaling. Which tasks are implemented where depends on safety and operational requirements. In practice, a hybrid architecture is usually created from edge and cloud components.

An initial IIoT project should start with a clearly defined and manageable use case. The aim is to quickly gain insights and gain technical and organizational experience. A small start reduces risks and makes it easier to assess the actual benefits. On this basis, the project can be expanded in a targeted manner, for example to include further data sources or use cases.

An IIoT project usually requires contacts from specialist areas, IT and possibly maintenance. The size of the project team is less important than a clear responsibility and decision-making structure. Technical knowledge of processes and systems is just as relevant as technical know-how for integration. Close coordination between the parties involved makes a significant contribution to the success of the project.

The duration of an IIoT project depends heavily on the use case, the existing infrastructure and the scope of integration. Pilot projects provide initial results and help to better understand requirements.