In previous contributions I have shared my views that the system integration industry is enjoying a fortunate moment in time. Trends like interconnectivity increase the size of the integration market. In our industry, interconnectivity is also commonly referred to as IoT or IIoT, and is closely related to Industrie 4.0 and smart manufacturing. End users continue to outsource system integration functions to external parties and this also supports growth in the system integration industry.
Am I the only one viewing it this way? I would like to point to two recent news releases related to two CSIA SI members.
- In December 2015 – “Accenture (NYSE: ACN) announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Cimation, an affiliate of Audubon Companies and an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) consulting company known for its work in process automation, information technology (IT) and industrial control system (ICS) cyber security.
The transaction supports the integration of enterprise IT systems and operational technology (OT) needed by resources industries to capitalize on opportunities such as automation solutions, production optimization, asset analytics and ICS cyber security. As a result, companies can better maintain, operate and optimize their wells, pipelines, refineries, chemical plants and mines.”
- In March 2016 – “DFW Capital Partners (DFW) is pleased to announce that it recently completed an equity investment in Superior Controls, Inc. (Superior Controls). Superior Controls is the Northeast’s leading provider of mission-critical systems integration and automation services primarily to the fast-growing biotechnology industry. Joining DFW in the transaction was Superior Control’s two founders, Rick Pierro and Mark LaRoche, who continue in their current management roles and remain significant shareholders in the company.”
In the not-too-distant past our industry was not a common recipient of external capital. The influx of this capital into our SI industry, along with our Best Practices, raises the level of the SI industry. We should be very proud of this and encourage it.
In the coming months I would like to explore the topic further and understand if CSIA can play a more active role in providing more transparency into our industry and helping make it a more common investment destination. I welcome input from other CSIA SI members who want to share information about investments made by third parties in their companies.