The worlds of Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) have traditionally functioned independently, but in recent years, the boundaries between these two domains have begun to blur. As industries adopt more integrated systems, the convergence of OT and IT is becoming critical to improving efficiency, enhancing cybersecurity, and making data-driven decisions. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between OT and IT, the drivers behind their convergence, and why hiring managers in life sciences and other sectors should take note of these trends.
What Is Operational Technology (OT)?
Operational Technology (OT) refers to the hardware and software systems that monitor and control industrial equipment and physical processes. It’s the backbone of industries like manufacturing, utilities, and transport, where maintaining real-time control over processes is essential for smooth operations. OT systems are often found in settings like factory floors, water treatment plants, and power grids.
Key Characteristics of OT:
- Primary Function: OT’s main purpose is to control and manage industrial processes in real-time. It ensures that machinery and equipment are running safely and efficiently.
- Specialised Hardware: OT systems typically rely on specialised devices, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and distributed control systems (DCS), which are designed to work under harsh industrial conditions.
- Real-Time Processing: OT systems demand real-time responses to ensure operational safety. For example, an OT system might immediately shut down machinery in a manufacturing plant if equipment fails.
- Longevity of Systems: OT systems are built for long-term reliability. In many industries, these systems remain in place for decades and are only upgraded if necessary.
What Is Information Technology (IT)?
On the other hand, Information Technology (IT) is focused on managing and processing data. It encompasses everything from software applications and servers to networking systems and cybersecurity. IT supports business operations through data storage, processing, and communication, ensuring that companies can effectively handle information, connect with stakeholders, and protect sensitive data.
Key Characteristics of IT:
- Primary Function: IT focuses on managing, storing, and processing data, supporting the informational needs of an organisation. This includes areas such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM), and email communication systems.
- Scalable Solutions: IT systems are designed to be flexible and scalable, enabling organisations to adapt quickly to new technologies, expand capabilities, and meet evolving demands.
- Cybersecurity: IT professionals work on safeguarding networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. With the increase in remote work and digital transformation, the emphasis on cybersecurity has grown significantly.
- Frequent Updates: Unlike OT systems, IT infrastructure tends to evolve more rapidly. Regular updates, patches, and upgrades are essential to stay ahead of the latest technological developments and security threats.
OT and IT: The Key Differences
The most obvious distinction between OT and IT is their core focus: OT deals with physical processes and real-time operational control, while IT is concerned with data management and communications. OT systems are often purpose-built for long-term use and operate in environments where uptime and safety are critical, whereas IT systems are more adaptable and regularly updated to keep pace with digital innovation.
Additionally, risk tolerance differs significantly between the two. In OT environments, the consequences of failure can be catastrophic—think about a power grid malfunction or an industrial machine failure. IT, on the other hand, often has the advantage of built-in redundancies, such as cloud backups and virtual servers, which make recovery easier in the event of a failure.
Despite these differences, the increasing interconnection between OT and IT is becoming evident, especially with the rise of Industry 4.0 and smart factories, where data-driven decisions and automation are revolutionising industrial processes.
The Convergence of OT and IT: A Necessity for Modern Industry
With the advent of Industry 4.0, which integrates the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and automation, OT and IT are no longer siloed. The convergence of these two domains is essential for leveraging data from operational processes to improve efficiency, optimise decision-making, and strengthen cybersecurity.
1. Enhanced Data-Driven Decision Making
One of the primary benefits of OT-IT integration is the ability to collect and analyse real-time data from industrial processes. In life sciences, for instance, IT systems can work alongside OT devices to monitor and optimise everything from production lines to research environments. By integrating IT capabilities into OT systems, companies can harness this data to reduce downtime, predict maintenance needs, and increase productivity.
2. Improved Cybersecurity
As OT systems become more interconnected with the broader IT network, they are also exposed to new security threats. Traditionally, OT environments were isolated from IT networks, making them relatively secure from external attacks. However, this isolation is disappearing as businesses implement more connected solutions, and cybersecurity for OT has become a priority.
According to reports, investment in OT security in the UK is projected to grow by 39% annually through 2030. This reflects the growing recognition that a failure in OT systems—whether due to a cyber attack or technical glitch—can have devastating consequences. Merging IT’s expertise in cybersecurity with OT’s operational knowledge is now critical to safeguarding sensitive infrastructure.
3. Real-Time Operational Insights
With the integration of IT systems into OT environments, industries can now access real-time operational insights that were previously unavailable. For example, sensors on machinery can relay real-time data about performance and efficiency to IT systems, enabling more informed decision-making and rapid responses to emerging issues. In the life sciences sector, this could mean optimising production processes or enhancing quality control through real-time monitoring.
Market Demand and The Future of OT-IT Convergence
According to industry reports, the OT market is expected to grow to £60 billion globally by 2025, driven by the demand for industrial automation and real-time data processing. Additionally, 50% of companies in industrial sectors are expected to adopt hybrid OT-IT systems by 2025. This trend is not limited to manufacturing; life sciences companies are increasingly integrating IT with OT to leverage data analytics, automation, and cybersecurity.
In the UK, we’re seeing a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between OT and IT. As hiring managers seek talent that can handle both the operational and technological sides of the business, roles such as OT Security Analysts, Industrial Network Engineers, and Automation Specialists are becoming critical to support this transformation.
Recruitment Best Practices for Hiring OT-IT Talent
For hiring managers in the life sciences and related industries, understanding the need for hybrid OT-IT talent is essential. Here are a few recruitment best practices:
1. Look for Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Candidates with experience in both OT and IT can provide a unique advantage. Seek professionals who understand both industrial processes and data management.
2. Emphasise Cybersecurity: With the growing risk of cyber threats in OT environments, prioritising candidates with strong cybersecurity backgrounds is key.
3. Training and Development: Invest in training programs that upskill current employees, helping them adapt to the changing demands of hybrid OT-IT roles.
Conclusion
As the lines between OT and IT blur, businesses in life sciences and other sectors must adapt to this new landscape. The integration of OT and IT enables companies to make data-driven decisions, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks. Hiring managers need to stay ahead by sourcing talent that understands both domains, ensuring their organisations are well-positioned for the future.
If your organisation is looking to hire top OT-IT talent, get in touch with nufuture today to find the right candidates for these evolving roles.