MANUFACTURING


Design of OT networks for the next generation of discrete manufacturing


Across the manufacturing landscape in the EMEA region, the  modern plant has changed.


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rompted predominantly by rising energy costs, but also ongoing supply chain volatility and a shrinking pool of experienced personnel, organisations stand to re- evaluate their approach on how to design the new generation of production facilities. To put it in perspective, according to IEA Paris, European industrial electricity prices remain more than twice as high as those in the United States, and more than 50 per cent higher than in China and India. In this context, modernisation requires a solid digital base that can support scalability and deals with the most pressing challenges at the beginning, instead of relying on 


The role of OT network architecture 


decisions should be taken early. Give EPCs,  framework to work within and help prevent late-stage redesigns.


OT network architecture and data infrastructure need the same level of attention. Treating the network as a later- stage add-on often poses potential risks in form of additional installation work and, consequently, higher costs.


It’s also important to remember that the automation you’re using today isn’t the automation you’ll use tomorrow. A facility designed for today’s requirements may soon need to handle higher data volumes


32 MAY 2026 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS


and more assets.


Visibility and operational continuity One of the most immediate challenges is the loss of institutional knowledge as experienced engineers and technicians retire. According to the European Investment  report that the availability of skilled staff is already an obstacle to investment. In this environment, network visibility becomes integral. Networks that provide real-time insights allow smaller teams to operate more effectively by providing tacit knowledge accumulated by their predecessors.


Another common obstacle in industrial


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