Significant improvements in AI and other advanced technologies have made it more and more possible to automate previous manual processes and systems.  It has also been possible to increase performance and overall efficiencies and reduce costs by eliminating and managing the interfaces between previously disparate systems.

This has become increasingly important following the increased pressures on business and business finance over the last few years.  

This, however, can be a complex task, particularly when dealing with legacy systems. Hence the development of the concept of Smart Infrastructure Orchestration.

What is Smart Infrastructure Orchestration?

Smart infrastructure orchestration refers to the coordination and management of diverse components within complex Network and IT infrastructure systems to optimize its performance and efficiency. It involves leveraging advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and automation to enable seamless communication, integration, and control of various interconnected devices, systems, and processes.

To Give Up Control Or Not?

Implementing Smart Infrastructure Orchestration means passing some manual low-level control mechanisms to automated processes.  For example, in intelligence based network infrastructures, equipment configuration, routing and network monitoring, previously manual, are carried out automatically.

The decision to give up control for smart infrastructure orchestration is a complex one that depends on various factors, including the existing network and IT infrastructures, their specific context, the level of trust in the technology, and the potential benefits and risks involved.

Here are a few considerations:

Integration

Smart infrastructure orchestration brings together multiple systems, devices, and data sources, enabling them to interact and collaborate. It allows for the seamless exchange of information and coordination of actions between different components, creating a cohesive and interconnected network infrastructure ecosystem.

Smart infrastructure orchestration enables the integration of diverse systems and devices, creating a cohesive ecosystem. This interconnectedness allows for better coordination, data sharing, and decision-making across different components of the infrastructure.

In short, by allowing IT systems to communicate and coordinate with each other, tasks can be optimized and streamlined. This can lead to cost savings, improved resource allocation, and enhanced operational efficiency,  Other benefits can include improved user experiences, and innovation opportunities.

Trust and Security

Entrusting control to smart infrastructure orchestration requires a high level of trust in the underlying technology and the entities responsible for managing and securing it. The potential risks associated with cyber threats, data privacy breaches, and system vulnerabilities must be carefully assessed and addressed. Robust security measures, governance frameworks, and compliance standards are necessary to mitigate risks and maintain control over critical infrastructure.

This is a particularly important consideration.  The incidence of malware and other network attacks, coupled with increased threat surfaces and attack vectors makes network, system and information security a number one priority.

Different subsystems may have different security requirements, and the overall security environment overlaid by regulatory and legislative requirements.   These need to be factored in.

Reliability and Resilience

Smart infrastructure orchestration introduces a dependency on technology systems and connectivity. Reliability and resilience become critical factors as any disruptions or failures can have far-reaching consequences. Robust backup systems, redundancy measures, and disaster recovery plans must be in place to ensure continuity of services and rapid response to contingencies.

The dependency can be counter productive because a small loss of service that may previously may not have been of major concern, could now potentially bring a much broader loss of service.   Again, this is an area that needs considerable consideration.

Regulatory and Legal Considerations

The adoption of smart infrastructure orchestration may be subject to specific regulatory frameworks and legal requirements. Compliance with relevant regulations and standards, such as data protection and privacy laws, must be carefully evaluated and adhered to.

This is integrated with the need for industrial-strength information and systems security.

Data-driven Decision Making

Smart infrastructure orchestration relies on the collection and analysis of vast amounts of data from various sensors and devices. This data is processed and transformed into actionable insights, enabling informed decision-making. Real-time data allows for proactive management, predictive maintenance, and better resource utilization.

Improved User Experience

Through smart infrastructure orchestration, the user experience can be enhanced. It enables personalized services, seamless interactions, and adaptive environments. For example, in smart buildings, occupants can experience optimized lighting, temperature control, and security based on their preferences and needs.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Smart infrastructure orchestration plays a vital role in promoting sustainability and energy efficiency, a matter of major concern currently.  By monitoring and controlling energy consumption, optimizing resource utilization, and facilitating demand-response mechanisms, it helps reduce waste and environmental impact.

Some Examples Of Smart Infrastructure Orchestration

• Smart grid systems that optimize electricity distribution and balance supply and demand.
• Intelligent transportation systems that manage traffic flow, monitor road conditions, and coordinate traffic signals.
• Smart cities that integrate various infrastructure components like transportation, energy, waste management, and public services for efficient management and sustainability.
• Industrial automation systems that coordinate and optimize manufacturing processes, supply chains, and inventory management.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to embrace smart infrastructure orchestration and relinquish control depends on a balance between the potential benefits and risks involved. It requires a thorough assessment of the specific context, careful planning, and ongoing monitoring and adaptation to ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved while maintaining adequate control and mitigating risks.

Overall, smart infrastructure orchestration leverages advanced technologies and data-driven approaches to optimize the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of complex infrastructure systems, ultimately improving user experiences and resource utilizatio