SCADA is the control systems architecture that provides complete oversight over devices in the field by collecting data in real-time and letting supervisory management make actionable decisions. Keith Smee, Engineer with Concept Systems, led a beginner’s guide discussion in SCADA systems on Beyond the Concept. 

His goal: provide some tips and tricks for those running into challenges maximizing their existing SCADA system or debating deploying one for the first time but confused by technical specifics and best practices for integration. 

The importance of IT involvement in SCADA is something Smee said is super important and an essential tip for those unfamiliar with this type of system. “The way things are going now, everything is getting networked together,” Smee said. “Everything is going to be server-based, everything requires a lot of management, and the people who are doing that right now at your company are those IT people. It pays a lot to have them involved right at the beginning.”