An activity that benefits process manufacturers and process automation suppliers is the research conducted by the trade analysts and trade press. These groups have a broad base of people across many industries and geographies to which they can reach out to uncover unmet needs and open issues.
I’ve been closely following the blog of ARC Advisory Group’s Larry O’Brien and their recent ARC World Industry Forum in Orlando. In one post, Larry highlights a new study they are conducting, Process Automation System Lifecycle Management Survey. The survey opens:
Users of process automation systems have struggled with the issue of determining when the useful life of their system is over. Since these systems are crucial to the success of operations from so many aspects, having a strategy based on best practices is essential. Modern process automation systems are comprised of many components that each have different life expectancies. Suppliers have worked in concert with their clients to provide replacements for obsolete components that in many cases have extended the life far beyond the original expectation. This survey will help determine what the current state of the industry is and how it relates to best practices. We will be happy to send you a consolidated copy of survey results when the survey is complete. Thank you for your cooperation. All of your information will be kept confidential.
The results from this type of research can be beneficial to the technologies, services, and programs developed by automation suppliers to better meet the expectations of their customers. The Emerson SureService team is one example of an organization that is interested in the results and analysis that flows from automation lifecycle management-related research.
I know many like me feel they are surveyed to death, but it’s a pretty good deal to get the consolidated copy of the survey results to see how your peers answered the questions you answered.
