Driving Digital Transformation in Industrial Automation

ABB and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have extended their 18-year collaboration to modernise ABB’s global IT infrastructure. This multi-year agreement focuses on creating a unified digital foundation that supports industrial automation, factory automation, and advanced control systems. By leveraging AI-driven frameworks, ABB aims to accelerate innovation and enhance operational resilience.

Future Hosting Model for Scalable Control Systems

TCS will implement ABB’s Future Hosting Model, a modular IT architecture designed to streamline hosting operations. This model integrates predictive operations, faster service restoration, and continuous security assurance. Moreover, it aligns with ABB’s Core Platform vision, which prioritises cloud migration, orchestration, and automation across PLC and DCS environments.

Enhancing Agility and Reliability in Factory Automation

ABB’s CIO Alec Joannou emphasised that modernising hosting operations will improve agility and reliability. In industrial automation, agility means faster deployment of control systems and reduced downtime. Therefore, ABB’s customers benefit from improved service delivery and enhanced factory automation performance.

AI-Powered Zero Ops for Industrial Efficiency

TCS will operationalise its AI-powered Zero Ops framework to minimise human intervention in IT operations. As a result, ABB gains continuous monitoring, predictive maintenance, and automated recovery. This approach reflects a growing industry trend where AI ensures business continuity in complex automation environments.

Shared Vision for Intelligent and Responsible Operations

Anupam Singhal of TCS highlighted that technology must empower people and drive responsible operations. This partnership demonstrates how industrial automation leaders integrate IT services with control systems to achieve efficiency, autonomy, and sustainability. In addition, ABB’s modular hosting landscape supports mergers, acquisitions, and carve-outs with minimal disruption.

Cloud-First Approach and Carbon Reduction

TCS will deliver a cloud-first environment with data-driven governance, enabling ABB to reduce its carbon footprint. Cloud migration in industrial automation not only improves scalability but also supports energy-efficient operations. This aligns with global sustainability goals and industry standards for responsible manufacturing.

Building on Two Decades of Collaboration

Over the past 18 years, TCS has supported ABB with ERP implementation, data center consolidation, and cloud migration. This new phase builds on that foundation to modernise infrastructure services and accelerate adoption of advanced automation technologies. Consequently, ABB strengthens its position as a leader in electrification and industrial automation.

Industry Presence and Recognition

TCS has operated in Europe for over 45 years, serving more than 350 clients across 21 countries. Its recognition as a top employer and customer satisfaction leader reinforces its authority in IT services. ABB benefits from this expertise to ensure trustworthiness and operational excellence in its automation journey.

Author’s Insight: Trends in Industrial Automation

The ABB–TCS partnership reflects a broader industry trend: IT and automation convergence. Industrial automation increasingly relies on cloud platforms, AI-driven monitoring, and modular hosting models. Companies that integrate IT resilience with factory automation gain competitive advantages in flexibility, cost efficiency, and sustainability.

Application Scenarios in Industrial Automation

• Smart Factories: AI-driven predictive maintenance reduces downtime in PLC and DCS systems.

• Energy Management: Cloud-based control systems optimise power usage in electrification projects.

• Global Operations: Modular hosting enables seamless integration during mergers and acquisitions.

• Resilient Manufacturing: Automated recovery ensures business continuity in critical factory automation processes.