In this latest episode of the IT/OT Insider podcast, David welcomed Jan Meskens, a seasoned data consultant with a rich background in data management and academia. The discussion provided deep insights into the evolving landscape of industrial data management, emphasizing the critical need for bridging the gap between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) to leverage the full potential of data in Industry 4.0.
User-Centric Data Management
“In the world of data, usability is often an afterthought”
Jan, who started his career in user experience design before transitioning into data consultancy, shared his unique perspective on making data systems as user-friendly as possible. “In the world of data, usability is often an afterthought,” Meskens explained. He highlighted the common industry challenge where crucial data is frequently trapped within complex systems like massive Excel spreadsheets, understandable only by their creators.
The Two-Pronged Approach to Data Projects: Bottom-up + Top-down
The conversation shifted towards how organizations initiate and drive data projects. Meskens outlined a dual approach seen in most successful enterprises: a bottom-up initiative driven by specific teams who see value in data and a visionary top-down strategy led by leaders who understand the broader benefits of data integration. “Both directions are crucial for cultivating a data-driven culture within any organization,” Meskens noted.
Proof of Concept: Learning or a Pitfall?
“The real success stories are those where PoCs serve as a stepping stone to full-scale implementation and integration.”
A significant focus was on the role of proofs of concept (PoCs) in data management projects. Meskens emphasized that PoCs should be learning instruments rather than final solutions. “The real success stories are those where PoCs serve as a stepping stone to full-scale implementation and integration,” he stated. This approach mitigates the risk of what he humorously refers to as "PoC purgatory," where projects perpetually cycle through the proof-of-concept phase without reaching full deployment.
Integrating IT and OT Perspectives
David and Jan also delved into the cultural and procedural nuances that differentiate IT and OT. Meskens pointed out that while IT projects can often pivot and adapt rapidly, operational technology demands a more methodical and safety-oriented approach due to the physical nature of the machinery and processes involved. This difference often leads to a clash of expectations and methodologies when managing data projects across IT and OT boundaries.
Facilitating Change through Sketches
Highlighting an innovative communication method, Meskens shared how sketching complex ideas has helped bridge the communication gap between various stakeholders in data projects. “Sketches open a dialogue—they are simple yet powerful tools for visualization and feedback,” he remarked, noting how this method helps stakeholders engage more constructively in project discussions.
Book Recommendations
Meskens recommended two influential books for those interested in deepening their understanding of data management and project dynamics: "The Phoenix Project" and "Data Management at Scale." These readings, he believes, provide foundational knowledge and advanced insights into effectively managing and scaling data projects.
Insights for the Future
The podcast wrapped up with a reflective discussion on the future of IT/OT convergence, with both David and Jan advocating for more integrated and cooperative approaches to managing industrial digital transformation.
This episode of the IT/OT Insider not only shed light on the technical and cultural facets of data management but also underscored the importance of strategic and human-centric approaches to digital transformation in the manufacturing sector. As industries worldwide continue to evolve, the principles discussed by David and Jan will undoubtedly influence future innovations and integrations across the IT-OT spectrum.
Book giveaway!
We are giving away a copy of The Phoenix Project ! Details can be found at the end of the episode. Send your answers to david@itotinsider.com or DM me on LinkedIn.
About our Guest
Find Jan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janmeskens/ or via his website https://sievax.be. Make sure to subscribe to his blog on Medium: https://medium.com/@meskensjan
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Bridging Data between OT and IT: A Conversation on Data Management with Jan Meskens