ISA Insights

January 2008

The ISA Automation Information Technology (AIT) Forum: Where Manufacturing and IT Meet

In recognition of the technical, financial, and cultural dynamics of IT in manufacturing and the growing importance of getting automation IT "right", ISA will be presenting a 2-day forum on Automation Information Technology (AIT) with a theme of “Where Manufacturing and IT Meet.”

The Automation Information Technology (AIT) Forum will be held 20-21 May 2008 in Cleveland, Ohio. Topics to be covered include technical and business related issues facing IT professionals working in manufacturing and automation environments. Issues to be discussed include security, wireless platforms, interoperability, standards, business drivers, and cultural shifts taking place. These topics and issues will be addressed through best practices, case studies, informational presentations, and extensive Q&A and networking opportunities.

Presentation proposals are being accepted for the Forum, which will include panel discussions on case studies and best practices for the evolving relationship between "corporate IT" and "manufacturing IT." There are multiple technical, budgetary, and cultural clashes happening as automation controls become dominated by microprocessor computers. A classic example of this is putting patches on OS software (a standard procedure in an office environment) and bringing down manufacturing lines.

The forum will elaborate on the obvious and subtle differences and conflicts between manufacturing and IT. Examples include IT often times having a larger more flexible budget, and IT working on long range computer solutions while manufacturing automation works on immediate product or line problem solving.

Because few companies have been able to bring about increased collaboration between their manufacturing and IT people, ISA is hoping to provide perspective and help through this forum to continue to work with AIT professionals and companies.

To submit a proposal for a presentation or learn more about the Automation Information Technology Forum, contact Bob Crigler at bcrigler@isa.org.