Edge Computing: Benefits & Opportunities for Digital Transformation
Edge computing is a distributed computing architecture that brings computation and data collection closer to where it is needed to provide local monitoring and control, run advanced applications, improve response times, save bandwidth and connect to the enterprise.
Not only does edge computing help minimize bandwidth, latency issues and reduce data processing costs, it also delivers real business benefits. For example, edge computing reduces downtime of critical equipment and assets that could otherwise lead to lower yields, regulatory fines and lost revenue. It also provides the continuous visibility on operations that companies need to maximize productivity and overall quality.
Companies across a wide range of industrial sectors achieve success using edge computing as a foundation supporting many different use cases and improving many parts of their business.
For example, edge computing is a proven way to achieve the benefits of information technology-operational technology (IT-OT) convergence, empower the post-pandemic remote workforce and accelerate larger digital transformation efforts through the use of complementary advanced technologies.
To help demonstrate the technological and business value of edge computing, this article will describe each of these use cases in detail.
Much has been written about the need for IT-OT convergence—that is, the requirement for operational technology to meet IT requirements—and how technology, especially the industrial internet of things (IIoT), has created new opportunities that require organizations to optimize how their machines, applications and systems collect, transmit and process valuable data.
There are many benefits to a successful IT-OT convergence strategy. Companies can improve productivity, eliminate unplanned downtime, simplify process controls and better use the data and technology to make better, faster business decisions.
Yet as compelling as these benefits may be, one issue is not so clear: Who should be responsible for evaluating, supporting and managing edge computing infrastructure? OT and IT professionals, who may be responsible for computing on the edge, may already have their hands full.
A successful IT-OT convergence strategy involves edge computing platforms with built-in and preconfigured redundancy and virtualization that can be operated and maintained by OT personnel, eliminating the need for IT staff to be present at all sites. This is especially valuable for operational departments whose limited IT staff is already stretched too thin.
As a result, most companies operating edge environments tend to rely on OT professionals; if something goes wrong, the idea of flying someone in from IT to fix the problem is not time- or cost-effective.
Edge computing can be the answer, particularly when purpose-built for rugged environments and zero-touch operation with self-diagnosing and self-reporting capabilities and comprehensive remote systems management. This makes modern edge computing platforms simple to deploy and maintain, easing the skill and resource burden on IT and OT while positioning the business to reap the benefits of the convergence strategy.
