Digital Transformation Viewpoints

Featured here are original and timely articles from ARC analysts and guest writers on topics such as Digitization, New Business Models, Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, Smart Cities, and Smart Manufacturing. We dive into technologies such as additive manufacturing, machine learning, asset performance management, device connectivity, IIoT architecture, cybersecurity, augmented reality, and more related to digitization and transformation of industries, infrastructure, and cities. Our goal is to provide readers with clear and concise analyses, opinions, and discussion of these trends, technologies, and services.

Nov
02
2018
Guest Blogger: Sandy Mangat — Industry Trends

People-centric Digital Transformation through OPM

The concept of Operations Performance Management (OPM) – the connecting of operational systems to improve outcomes for organizations – has been around for decades.

Nov
02
2018
— Technology Trends

3D Scanning Enables Affordable Reality Capture

Whether it is quality control in a manufacturing setting, driving a construction project to completion under budget and on time, or safely analyzing stockpile volume in a mining operation, accurate and timely measurement is key for many companies. Recently, 3D scanning technology has emerged as a compelling solution for a bevy of metrology applications, and has even enabled some new ones altogether.
Nov
01
2018
Guest Blogger: Rajiv Anand — Industry Trends

Closed-loop AI Key to Transformational Impact

Leaders of process manufacturing industries confirm in various studies and surveys that the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on their business is indeed transformational. Double-digit production efficiency gains and maintenance cost reduction are often cited.

Oct
31
2018
— Industry Trends

Why Fleets Will Drive Adoption of Electric Vehicles

Electrification is one of the most significant trends in transport today. Future demand for both electric vehicles (EVs) and the associated electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) will, of course, be driven by increased adoption of electric vehicles by individuals and businesses. In this post, I will be making the case that the economics of EVs prove particularly favorable for fleet operations, focusing on full-battery as opposed to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (BEVs vs. PHEVs).
Oct
29
2018
Guest Blogger: Alyssa Farrell — Industry Trends

How Utilities Get Value with the Artificial Intelligence of Things

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Utilities industry – what’s the buzz all about?  The true value from IoT data is realized when it’s combined with advanced analytics and AI.  AIoT – the Artificial Intelligence of Things – is all about applying AI to data from smart devices and environments connected by the Internet of Things (IoT).
Oct
25
2018
— Industry Trends

Cobots and Other Industrial Assist Robots are in Demand

Cobots and other industrial assist robots (IARs) are piquing manufacturers' interest as they continue their quest to improve operating efficiencies and productivity.  This is particularly so with smaller-to-mid-sized organizations, who are too often looking for ways to compete

Oct
25
2018
Larry O'Brien — Technology Trends

Using an Incident-Focused Model for Information Security Programs

Organizations attempt to prevent information security incidents by embedding tools in policies and practices across business functions. Because it is not possible to completely prevent security events, organizations must also include proven response practices as part of their security program.
Oct
23
2018
Inderpreet Shoker — Industry Trends

Key Asset Integrity Management (AIM) Methodologies

Traditionally, industrial plants have followed prescriptive run‐repair‐replace approach for managing and maintaining their assets and equipment. While this strategy had been working for end-users, they realize that it is not the most cost-effective strategy. End users have begun to better realize the contributions of proper inspection and maintenance in keeping physical assets in good working conditions to avoid business interruption and improve profitability as well as plant safety. End users are taking informed approach to planning inspection and maintenance to maximize asset output while maintaining asset integrity.
Oct
18
2018
— Industry Trends

Smart Manufacturing Operations Become Even Smarter With AR and VR

The time is right for smart manufacturing organiztions to adopt -- or expand -- their use, of AR and VR.  While the world of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) may be best known for such games as Pokémon GO and The Machines for the former and Minecraft VR and Need for Speed VR for the latter, both technologies are becoming an important part of the underlying strategy of firms adopting smart manufacturing methodologies.
Oct
17
2018
Chantal Polsonetti — Industry Trends

IIoT and I4.0 Drive Expanding Functional Spectrum of IIoT Edge Devices

The IIoT edge is still in the development stage regarding solidification of its ultimate role in emerging IIoT architectures, but there is no doubt as to its rising importance in fulfilling the IIoT vision. As industrial internet strategies are evolving, so too are the functional capabilities of the enabling edge infrastructure devices. In the IIoT gateway and router market, this expanding functional spectrum provides both IT and OT suppliers with more options as to where to position device offerings. New offerings, including highly functional low-cost devices, target a variety of points along the broadening price/performance spectrum associated with the edge.