Operational intelligence refers to the overall ecosystem of sensors, data-gathering systems, analysis software, procedures, and training that businesses use to monitor the health of machines, systems, and production lines. 

Advancements in sensor technology and control systems, especially with the introduction of smart sensors and the internet of things, give operators and managers more insight into their equipment than ever before. Operational intelligence enhances decision-making in real-time, boosts productivity, and enhances overall workforce efficiency. In the context of industrial frontline work, effective operational intelligence makes for better results during both regular work and when performing maintenance.

Operational intelligence vs business intelligence

"Business intelligence" is a term that refers to the collective of technologies and procedures used historically by manufacturers to measure the performance and health of machines and systems. Business intelligence seeks to manage operations by using historical data and results rather than active measurement. Technologies such as server logs, reports, analyses, and other forms of non-continuous monitoring. This kind of intelligence is often well informed by the use of large datasets but lacks the kind of continuous improvement and real-time changes possible with a more active set of tools.

Operational intelligence, by contrast, relies upon an array of sensors and monitoring tools to gain immediate insight. Operational intelligence does not have to work against business intelligence, but the kind of information that operational intelligence provides and the kinds of decisions it enables are not possible with legacy procedures and tools. Operational intelligence tools are designed to be active rather than passive, dynamic rather than static, and immediate rather than post-analysis. The data gathered through operational intelligence systems can be used later for analysis, but the most important benefit is the speed rather than the depth of data gathered.

The benefits of operational intelligence

The following are explorations of the key benefits provided by operational intelligence systems:

Real-time Decision Support: Whether monitoring IT systems or physical infrastructure, the real-time data provided by operational intelligence tools makes it possible to address problems and make informed decisions quickly.

Identify Growing Threats: Threats can range from network intrusions to heat buildup in a machine. Whatever the threat profile is, failure and damage can result from letting threats grow out of control. With operational intelligence sensors and automatic monitoring systems, threats can be identified and addressed before they cause significant damage.

Make Accurate Changes: With proper sensor placement, the data gathered can be used to make more effective and accurate decisions.

Rapid Adaptation: The speed of operational intelligence can be used not only to make decisions about the monitored systems but also to make changes to the sensor networks themselves. Holes in sensor data can be identified and filled quickly, enhancing the effectiveness of the operational intelligence system.

Breaking Down Data Silos: An integrated operational intelligence system is based on the idea of combining data from many different places. This prevents the development of data silos and helps to break down existing data silos, making better use of all gathered data.

Operational intelligence tools

Businesses looking to incorporate operational intelligence tools into their workflows will need to understand what tools are available.

Data Collection Tools: Operational Intelligence begins with data. Data can be gathered through the use of sensors, monitoring tools, or logs. Sensors are primarily for physical capital, such as industrial machines, whereas monitoring tools and logs are used in IT systems. Every data point should be captured, if possible, because more data means more material for analysis.

Data Processing Tools: Data gathered from sensors or logs is only useful when processed properly. Data processing tools take in data, collate it, and format it in such a way that it is readable to humans or other software tools. These data processing tools can also be used to filter data, aggregate select data, and check data points against others.

Data Analysis and Presentation Tools: Through the use of presentation tools such as dashboards, reporting software, and data visualization, operational intelligence data can be made easily accessible for humans. These tools can be customized to present the data in the format most useful to a given team, including intuitive graphics and priority alerts when immediate attention is needed.

Automated Decision-Making Tools: Automation is the key to managing huge datasets. In addition, some decisions either don’t need human intervention or need to be made more quickly than humans can react. In these cases, automated decision-making tools that can utilize the full depth of available data are necessary.

Using artificial intelligence (AI) to support operational intelligence

AI operational intelligence utilizes the powerful capabilities of AI to enhance the effectiveness of operational intelligence deployments. A true AI solution has several benefits over simple algorithmic programs:

Big Data Indexing: An AI-powered operational intelligence program is capable of indexing and analyzing much larger quantities of data than non-AI programs. A capable AI system should be able to scale to hundreds of terabytes per day, integrating that data into its decision-making.

Adaptive Decision-Making: An AI-driven management program is capable of adapting its decisions by utilizing machine learning. Through the use of machine learning, operational intelligence can continuously be improved, whether the AI is making decisions independently or simply supporting the decisions of operators.

Better Data Presentation: AI enhances data presentation and user interfaces with features such as natural language support and better searching algorithms. In addition, AI can aid in the creation of search queries, especially complex queries necessary to support complex operations. Operators and managers who handle large amounts of data will find AI-enhanced management programs easier.

Implementing operational intelligence

With the expansion of data-gathering programs and advanced sensors, modern logistics and manufacturing increasingly require data-driven solutions and operational intelligence as part of workflows. While challenges remain to the implementation of operational intelligence, modern organizations with the means to do so cannot afford to remain with legacy solutions and static SOPs.

STRIVR is a company that helps teams enhance their workforce through the use of AI-enhanced immersive training. Now, STRIVR is releasing WorkWise, a new AI-enhanced operational intelligence platform. WorkWise is designed to replace traditional SOPs, enhancing data analysis and enabling better decision-making in a variety of industries. With WorkWise, STRIVR is providing the platform for companies to embrace the next generation of operations management.