SCADA Is Dead, Or Is It?

Data plays a vital role in the digitalization of industrial facilities. But, as industry’s digitalization goals become more ambitious, and our expectations of facility data increases, how is technology for data capture and analysis changing? 

Let’s get this straight: SCADA as we knew it is gone. The traditional automation pyramid has collapsed, and IT/OT convergence is on the rise. The next generation of solutions has arrived and is paving the way for advanced manufacturing.

We are in the age of industrial digitalization, and control and monitoring software has never been so ubiquitous. Before we can understand the purpose of SCADA in Industry 4.0 journeys, we need to understand how the technology is changing. The technology has shifted from a tool for monitoring and data capture, to the technology shaping the smart factories of the future. One of the crucial ways this is achieved is the use platforms with open system architecture.  

Open System Architecture  

Open system architecture describes the elimination of vendor dependence that is often associated with early and proprietary SCADA systems. In practice, an open system is not limited to operating with one original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) products, or a limited number of communication protocols. 

This level of flexibility is key to ensuring modern systems are fit for purpose in modern factories. Moreover, providers of futureproof SCADA systems must be willing to continually adopt and embrace new standards to keep up with the growing scale of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) device networks. When specifying a software platform, guaranteed updates are one the one hand a necessity, however vendors do also need to ensure Long-term support (LTS) for up to ten years. 

IT & OT Convergence

Another consideration is the integration of Information Technology (IT). Some modern platforms are capable of integrating data sets that were previously limited to the IT space. For instance, capturing data from Enterprise Resource Management (ERP) or Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) systems for consideration alongside Operational Technology (OT) data from the factory floor. 

Data collected by IT systems can be used to streamline production processes, fix critical issues faster and make better informed decisions - but only if it is collected, transmitted and processed effectively and securely. The most effective systems will be able to operate across both of these technology spheres. In addition, a software platform doesn’t only gather data from different hardware and IT systems but do also need to provide data in an open format and accessible for third parties, e.g. through a REST API. Modern SCADA can operate like a data hub or, as you could also name it, as an OTIL (Operation Technology Integration Layer).

Applying SCADA For Industry 4.0

Now we understand the potential of modern SCADA systems - how do engineers use this technology in their digitalization journey? On its most basic level, a SCADA system lets an operator verify that its machinery is operating correctly. However, modern systems should enable an operator to use SCADA data to determine how to make improvements or adjustments to equipment to maximize productivity or efficiency. 

At the beginning of any digitalization project, a manufacturer should consider its data sets and use them to determine smart goals. Is achieving better energy efficiency a key company goal? The platform should be capable of identifying areas of high energy usage, and this is where that organization should start their process. Is improved capacity to produce customized projects a goal? In this case, data on equipment availability will be key.

In order for the company to make informed decisions on digitalization, having access to a full facility of data sets is key. 

Without having clear visualization of all the data produced from a facility - whether this is related to energy usage, productivity, downtime or something else - it is impossible to embark on an informed Industry 4.0 journey. In fact, proper investment in data collection technology should come before any other smart factory investment — including any hardware. 

Challenges Of SCADA Upgrades

A common challenge faced by engineers when updating their SCADA system is setting up new automation projects. Overhauling aging SCADA systems can leave engineers with a significant programming burden. This is particularly challenging as the industry continues to struggle with skills shortages. However, good systems are capable of removing the need for complex programming. 

The product philosophy of COPA-DATA’s zenon, as an example, is to set parameters instead of programming. In practice, this means an extensive library of pre-designed static and dynamic elements and symbols. This means that no prior knowledge of programming is needed and projects can be created via clicking instead of coding — in comparison to an engineer having to write tens of thousands of lines of code. This can result in significantly less downtime for a manufacturer switching its system and crucially, a reduced need for investment, recruitment and training resources for the engineering team. 

This ease-of-use is crucial for a next generation SCADA to be implemented in an Industry 4.0 project. Frankly, the only good digital tools you will invest in, are the ones you will actually use.   

SCADA For Industry 4.0

There is no doubt that Industry 4.0 is transforming the way manufacturers operate, but it is also transforming how SCADA systems work, and what businesses should expect from them. Long gone are the days when straightforward data capture is enough. To fulfil Industry 4.0 goals, SCADA systems must be much more advanced.

At COPA-DATA, we took the decision to move away from using heavily the terminology SCADA for our solutions approx. 5 years ago. The zenon software platform had developed into a far more advanced tool for data capture, visualization, analysis and reporting. For manufacturers with Industry 4.0 goals, a platform with this level of comprehension is necessary. 

Stefan Reuther is member of the executive board at industrial software specialist COPA-DATA

You Might Also Read: 

Operating Technology Security Issues Are Increasing:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

If you like this website and use the comprehensive 6,500-plus service supplier Directory, you can get unrestricted access, including the exclusive in-depth Directors Report series, by signing up for a Premium Subscription.

  • Individual £5 per month or £50 per year. Sign Up
  • Multi-User, Corporate & Library Accounts Available on Request

Cyber Security Intelligence: Captured Organised & Accessible


 

« Twitter Threatens To Sue Meta Over Threads App
British Spy Agency Was Hacked 20 Years Ago »

CyberSecurity Jobsite
Perimeter 81

Directory of Suppliers

Authentic8

Authentic8

Authentic8 transforms how organizations secure and control the use of the web with Silo, its patented cloud browser.

The PC Support Group

The PC Support Group

A partnership with The PC Support Group delivers improved productivity, reduced costs and protects your business through exceptional IT, telecoms and cybersecurity services.

North Infosec Testing (North IT)

North Infosec Testing (North IT)

North IT (North Infosec Testing) are an award-winning provider of web, software, and application penetration testing.

MIRACL

MIRACL

MIRACL provides the world’s only single step Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) which can replace passwords on 100% of mobiles, desktops or even Smart TVs.

IT Governance

IT Governance

IT Governance is a leading global provider of information security solutions. Download our free guide and find out how ISO 27001 can help protect your organisation's information.

BruCON

BruCON

Brucon is Belgiums premium security and hacking conference.

ClearedJobs.Net

ClearedJobs.Net

ClearedJobs.Net is a career site and job fair company for professionals seeking careers in the defense, intelligence and cyber security communities.

Defence Intelligence

Defence Intelligence

Defence Intelligence is an information security firm specializing in advanced malware protection.

Department of Justice - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS)

Department of Justice - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS)

The Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) is responsible for implementing the Department's national strategies in combating computer and intellectual property crimes worldwide.

RUSCADASEC

RUSCADASEC

RUSCADASEC is an independent non-profit initiative on developing the open Russian-speaking international community of industrial cyber security/ICS/SCADA cyber security professionals.

Phoenix Cybersecurity

Phoenix Cybersecurity

Phoenix Cybersecurity Services and Managed Security Services help clients just like you take full advantage of leading cybersecurity technologies and industry best practices.

Unit21

Unit21

Unit21 helps protect businesses against adversaries through a simple API and dashboard for detecting and managing money laundering, fraud, and other sophisticated risks across multiple industries.

Raxis

Raxis

Raxis is a cybersecurity company that hacks into computer networks and physical structures to perform penetration tests, assessing corporate vulnerability to real-world threats.

CyberconIQ

CyberconIQ

CyberconIQ provide an integrated Human Defense Platform that reduces the probability and/or the cost of a cybersecurity breach by measurably improving our clients risk posture and compliance culture.

Aikido Technology Services

Aikido Technology Services

Aikido Technology Services is a leading-edge technology solutions provider, servicing the Pacific North West USA. We offer affordable IT solutions designed to streamline and secure your business.

Cysurance

Cysurance

Cysurance is a next-generation risk mitigation company that insures, warranties and certifies security solutions.

AccessIT Group

AccessIT Group

AccessIT Group is a specialized cybersecurity solutions provider offering a full range of advanced security services.

Increase Your Skills (IYS)

Increase Your Skills (IYS)

Armed and ready: raise awareness of cyberattacks in your company with the Full-Service Awareness Platform from IYS – fast and effective. We help you develop a robust, sustainable security strategy.

Token Security

Token Security

Token is the new approach designed for the identity boom era. Introducing Machine-First Identity Security.

Beazley Security

Beazley Security

Beazley Security is a global cyber security firm committed to helping clients develop true cyber resilience: the ability to withstand and recover from any cyberattack.

Qryptonic

Qryptonic

Qryptonic pioneers next-generation cybersecurity by leveraging the unparalleled capabilities of quantum computing to defend against evolving threats.