Majority of the machinery used in production is capable of some data outputs. As well as service offering, data are available. Once you have your complete process and asset mapping and description, you can add another layer –
1. Identify data sources
Describing sources and types of data might not be the easiest task. IT spirit / attitude is required to complete this step. When you know from where you get the data, you should also…
2. Describe data storage
Whether you store your information digitally – locally, on cloud or as hard copies or as combination of those, describe what data in what format you actually have. Include also the timespan for those. Once you know from where the data goes to where they are stored, you shall actively start to…
3. Fill the data gaps
As graphical as possible. This was a recommendation in the previous chapter: it will help you easily identify missing data to complete the digital twin of your process data output coverage. As an example – you want to monitor power consumption, but you find out you only have one meter per whole organization, or you want to monitor the efficiency of sales, but all the notes are done on paper notes of you sales representatives. In the first example you need to add a hardware as source, in the second example you have a gap in storage and need some CRM.
Getting here in the process of digital transformation is possible for IT enthusiasts. If you don’t feel comfortable in this role and you don’t have an IT department, it is time to ask professional consultants for help and support.
At this stage of the transformation, it is wise to know why you are even considering digital transformation. Because the next chapter is the heavy stuff – dedicated IT, system and software development will be needed, and those folks need to know WHY. Collection of the REQUIREMENTS must happen on all levels of you organization. It is best if IT folks do that, so they can align their work with your targets.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The author is Unikie’s business development manager, Lukáš Ptoszek. Since graduation as civil engineering at Brno technical University, Lukas has been working with project deliveries in different roles, companies and positions. Currently he is responsible for Unikie’s business development in Central European market, where his experience from non IT industries merges with Unikie’s knowledge enabling the best value offering for our customers.
