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Management of information and the IT systems it is stored in becomes a crucial capability for the industry. However, companies are struggling with the management of the various requirements and frequent changes of technology. Thus, IT complexity has become a major challenge for companies. At the same time, especially manufacturing companies are striving to implement Industrie 4.0 concepts. Many of these even have developed an Industrie 4.0 roadmap including various projects to change the company. Companies can develop such roadmaps by applying the Industrie 4.0 Maturity Index that gives a broad view on necessary capabilities for Industrie 4.0.
In our research, we analyzed data sets from over 10 manufacturing companies that have performed an Industrie 4.0 maturity assessment. Our hypothesis was that IT complexity challenges are hindering the implementation of Industrie 4.0 roadmaps significantly. We could prove this hypothesis at least for the companies analyzed and give insights on the specific challenges. Based on our analysis, we conclude our article by giving concrete recommendations on how to tackle IT complexity.
In the age of digitalization, IT strategies are becoming increasingly important. This is due to the fact that corporate IT is the key enabler of digitalization. In many companies, however, corporate IT is not well-aligned with the overall organizational strategy, preventing it from providing the best possible value for the different organizational units. A major challenge is posed by what we term IT complexity, which reduces efficiency and generates high costs for the corporate IT department.
This white paper outlines solutions for companies facing this issue. First, we provide an overview of the relevant terms and highlight the challenges confronting enterprises today. Central to this paper, we describe a four-step approach for the design development of an IT strategy. We introduce various tools with which to assess the current situation and identify relevant aspects of the business environment. Subsequently we outline an approach to strategy formulation and describe tools for strategy implementation and monitoring. Finally, an outlook into the future highlights what companies need to do to thrive into the future.