Selecting the right Rockwell Automation integrator can be a game changer for companies aiming to enhance their strategic industrial automation systems. Whether your company is working on a new control system or upgrading existing processes, the integrator’s skill set and proficiency will greatly determine your project’s success.
In the automation and industrial automation fields, Rockwell Automation is a primary provider of advanced solutions in manufacturing and process industries. However, these technologies may only be as good as the experienced integrator’s ability to properly design, implement, and support them. Here are the five factors one should focus on in order to make an informed decision in hiring a Rockwell Automation integrator.
Technical Expertise and Certifications
When it comes to assessing know-how, it is important to consider the Rockwell automation integrator in terms of their technical expertise and certifications. Rockwell Automation has established a Partner Network program that certifies system integrators with certain recognized levels of expertise.
A Rockwell Certified or Solution Partner integrator demonstrates a high level of proficiency in utilizing and implementing Rockwell’s technologies and best practices. In addition, verify if the vendor’s engineers have certifications for ControlLogix, FactoryTalk, or other Rockwell Automation solutions. With proper certification comes the assurance that the automation systems are correctly and accurately implemented, saving the company from incurring expensive mistakes and downtimes.
Industry Experience and Relevant Project Portfolio
An integrator’s history with your area of business is vital in ensuring that they understand the scope of your business and the associated regulations. An integrator, who is active in the construction, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, or energy fields will be familiar with specific industry problems and compliance standards.
Because of the wide scope of the field, looking at the integrator’s previous projects and case studies may be helpful. A reliable integrator has successfully completed projects comparable to yours, which demonstrates that they are likely to be able to meet the complex demands of your automation system.
Customization and System Compatibility
Each industrial automation system has its requirements, meaning that an integrator must be able to provide solutions that fulfill the operational goals of your particular business.
A competent Rockwell Automation integrator will design a flexible system that adds equipment while still integrating with the existing software and systems and minimizing disruptions to ongoing processes. Secondly, they should be able to redesign and redefine workflows and processes to optimize productivity.
Post-Implementation Support and Maintenance
Automation systems need constant maintenance and support to ensure that they operate optimally. Support services such as troubleshooting, remote support, training, and preventative maintenance programs tend to be overlooked.
A trustworthy integrator should be available for problem-solving such as optimizing system performance, preventing breakdowns, and quickly resolving technical issues, often 24/7. When systems are implemented for high-demand production systems, having support on standby is critical.
Cost vs. Value
It’s always a good idea to look at prices, but selecting an integrator simply based on price can turn out to be costly in the long run. Rather than accepting the lowest bid, consider the entire value a system integrator can provide.
A proficient Rockwell Automation integrator will almost certainly incur higher costs at the outset but will reduce your costs later with the appropriate system architecture, less system downtime, and greater productivity. Carefully consider the total cost of ownership related to implementation, ongoing support, staff training, and possible future expansion in order to make an educated choice and decision.
Conclusion
Picking the most appropriate Rockwell automation integrator is not only a tactically important decision; it can make a profound difference in the efficiency of your industrial automation operations. Value attributes such as Management of Change (MoC) processes, innovation and R&D, and others need to be taken into account and will enhance the design of an intelligent automation system.
The operational efficiency and competitive edge of your business are assured when Rockwell Automation solutions are implemented properly and with minimal disruption by a trusted integrator.
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