In today's manufacturing environment, two critical domains operate with fundamentally different priorities and languages: IT departments focus on data confidentiality and security, while OT teams prioritize safety and operational availability. This disconnect isn't just organizational—it creates real barriers to digital transformation.
According to recent research, only 23% of organizations have reached high levels of OT security maturity, largely due to the persistent gaps between IT and OT approaches. This divide becomes increasingly problematic as Industry 4.0 initiatives require seamless data flow between previously isolated systems.
IT and OT essentially speak different languages. IT prioritizes CIA (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), while OT operates on SAIC (Safety, Availability, Integrity, Confidentiality). This fundamental difference in priorities shapes everything from risk assessment to change management approaches.
Traditional OT environments were designed with the assumption of air gaps—physical separation from corporate networks and the internet. Today's connected factory floor requires bridging these worlds while maintaining operational stability.
Successful IT/OT convergence begins with organizational alignment. Establishing a dedicated OT governance structure with clearly defined responsibilities between IT and OT teams creates the foundation for collaboration.
Manufacturing IT specialists serve as translators between the typical OT production needs and IT requirements,ensuring both security and operational priorities are addressed. These specialists understand both languages, helping navigate the complex territory where IT and OT intersect.
Network segmentation following the Purdue model provides the architectural foundation for secure integration, allowing controlled data flow while preventing lateral movement of threats. This approach protects operations while enabling the data visibility needed for digital transformation.
Organizations that effectivelybridge IT and OT worlds gain more than security—they unlock operational intelligence that drives efficiency, improves productivity, and enables innovation. When IT and OT teams collaborate effectively, technology becomes an enabler rather than a barrier.
Key in convergence processes in strong OT governance ensuring the environment is well maintained and evolves the direction of the needs of the OT production facilities and changing technologies landscape.
At AG Solution, we help organizations navigate this complex landscape, creating the organizational and technical bridges needed for secure, efficient operations in an increasingly connected manufacturing environment.
