Big data analytics set to change maintenance services models

The advent of the Internet of Industrial Things (IoIT) has triggered an influx of technology-oriented services such as cybersecurity and advanced maintenance. This has dramatically widened business opportunities in the manufacturing services sector. As integration with ICT such as big data analytics and cloud-based platforms will form the crux of next-gen manufacturing services, solution providers are developing a portfolio of services that address security and operational improvement as well as maintenance and support.

Big data analytics is poised to change the maintenance services models across the manufacturing sector. The investments for establishment of robust maintenance and support service model by leveraging the big data analytic concepts is the critical factor for the high growth rate (CAGR of 9.1% from 2014 to 2021).

Srikanth Shivaswamy, Senior Research Analyst, Industrial Automation and Process Control, Frost & Sullivan, commented: “In line with the emerging trend of IoIT, manufacturing services are also evolving into a connected ecosystem supported by a single control centre. The demand for interoperability and maximum transparency across multiple products and processes is lending credence to the concept of connected operations.”

Such extensive integration will entail high costs for manufacturing units. The convergence of ICT with conventional services will require sophisticated platforms, further raising initial capital expenditure. However, the deployment of advanced process controls and smart communication systems will boost efficiency and compensate for the steep investments.

Strengthening cyber security infrastructure, a recent addition to the framework of industrial services, will be vital for the uptake of IoIT-based modules. Innovations in investigation, threat detection and self-aware platforms will be critical.

“Overall, solution providers will be rated on one of two factors. Customisation of service models to match the needs of end users or the capability to migrate to a different service model in alignment with a new end-user process, product or solution,” added Shivaswamy.

Delivering these competencies will allow services providers to mine lucrative prospects in under penetrated resource-based production industries. The availability of cost-effective solutions will lure small- and medium-scale manufacturers to implement IoIT-based systems, thus completing the shift from traditional to managed services.