The system integrator's role in digital transformation
Everybody has a role to play in an enterprise's digital transformation. And although the goal is the same (optimized operations) the roles in achieving that goal vary.
CSIA's Jose Rivera
We chatted with Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) CEO Jose Rivera to get an update on digital transformation from the integrator’s perspective. Take a look…
Smart Industry: What are the unique challenges / opportunities control-system integrators face in this digital era?
Jose: The end-user challenges continue to revolve around productivity/quality/safety/security. Some system integrators (SIs) may be tempted to state that “We have been doing digital transformation for the past 25 years.” While there may be similarities with the work done before, the extent of true digital transformation goes well beyond the deployment of traditional automation systems. Digital transformation places organization and processes at the same level of importance as technology. SIs will be asked to deliver on this extended solution scope. They will have to expand their offers or partner up with third parties. This will allow system integrators to engage with their end-user clients at a deeper level and, in the process, redefine their roles.
Smart Industry: What most excites you about the near future of automation in the industrial space?
Jose: The realization that smart industry doesn’t exist without the deep involvement of the human element. The vision is not one of “lights out manufacturing” but one of empowered and engaged workers. Transformation is the goal, and workers are very much part of it. I’m equally excited about the system-integrator community, that, in the past, has been very willing and successful in adapting to and leveraging change for growth.
