One of the coolest things about yesterday's keynotes at the ABB "Automation World" Users Conference--no PowerPoints. Sometimes I bow to the PowerPoint gods when the conference wants something to print in a binder, and I'll use them on our upcoming Ethernet Webcast, but for a typical talk they are distracting at best.
My theme for the day was how to improve your control platform. Some use the verb "migrate" and some "evolve," some may just refer to it as "upgrade." But the question is how do you bring your control system into a newer operating system and features.
The third keynote of yesterday's general session was given by Rory Johnson, director of design and process engineering at Weyerhaeuser titled "Make the most of your assets through planned implementation of control migration." Johnson told the audience to be mindful of the importance of automation and how it influences decisions. "It's hard to remain competitive just by reducing costs," he said. "Automation can be an important component of cost reduction, plus providing a technology-based advantage we're all seeking. It plays a critacal role in uptime, safety, environmental regulations. The knowledge gained from good automation strategy can hold costs down in the bust times, as well. Engineers need to spend time optimizing controls and sensors and less time on answereing alarms, tuning and repairing and replacing equipment as mean time to failure increases. The Holy Grail is set it and forget it."
Johnson's advice is don't be afraid to push the envelope. The tools are out there. To achieve best implementation, work with everyone within the company. Then, "beware of the salesman who comes in with a 'rip and replace' recommendation." Finally, put your automation supplier to the test by giving them a fair opportunity to put together an integrated solution into one strategy."
Following this was a fantastic breakout session led by Steve Deschamps of Nova Chemicals who described the planning and teamwork involved in a successful multi-plant control platform upgrade. I'm writing my June article on this subject this week, so look for more when it hits your desk.
2:56:36 PM 
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