The CTO of Siemens on What Enterprise IT Can Learn from Factory Automation

In this episode, Markus Zirn and Dirk Didascalou discuss the cutting-edge advancements and transformations in factory automation. They explore the evolution from traditional to integrated automation, the impact of the cloud, and the significance of data-driven automation. They also cover the importance of low-code solutions, the impact of AI, and the merging of physical and digital realms to revolutionize industry practices.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Start

02:51 Defining automation in Siemens' context

04:45 Evolution of factory automation

10:45 From traditional automation to data-driven orchestration

16:30 Dirk's career journey and lessons learned

28:30 Debunking  ‘enterprise grade’ myths

35:32 The rise of low-code solutions

43:41 AI's impact on manufacturing

Episode Key Takeaways

• Leverage data-driven automation: Utilize data analytics tools to monitor real-time information and context. Train your team to interpret this data for informed, adaptive decisions in your automation processes.
• Adpot low-code solutions for increased productivity: Empower your staff with low-code tools to create applications tailored to their workflow needs. This democratizes development and accelerates digital transformation.
• Harness the speed of software: The core idea Dirk stresses is the need for industries to transition to digital and software-defined frameworks to operate at the speed of software. This shift optimizes processes, boosts productivity, reduces resource consumption, and enhances sustainability.
• Embrace the cloud: Evaluate your current infrastructure and consider migrating legacy systems to cloud platforms. Leverage cloud-based AI and machine learning services for improved operational efficiency and innovation.

Top Quote

“Our vision is what if you can define industry by code? So it's all software, because software, of course, is much faster. So we want to get our customers to work at the speed of software and be data-driven. And that is the real revolution that will happen because that might change everything.”

Guest Bio

Dirk Didascalou is a distinguished technologist and business executive known for his leadership in mobile communications, Internet of Things (IoT, cloud computing, and industrial digitalization. As the Chief Technology Officer at Siemens Digital Industries, Dirk is responsible for shaping the technology and architecture strategy on a global scale. 

Prior to joining Siemens, Didascalou held significant roles at AWS as Vice President for IoT and at Microsoft as Corporate Vice President of Technology following Microsoft's acquisition of Nokia's Mobile Phones division. His extensive experience in these positions has solidified his expertise in IoT solutions and cloud technologies, positioning him as a key player in the digital transformation landscape.

At Siemens, Didascalou oversees strategic industrial partnerships and initiatives, particularly in the automotive sector, while also contributing to the company's IoT board. His leadership is instrumental in merging digital and physical worlds, helping customers leverage advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and drive data-driven decision-making across industries.