Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of the Data Historian Market
The data historian market is experiencing an unprecedented period of growth, driven by a rapid increase in the use of new technology, the expansion of regulatory frameworks, and growing demand for transparency and data availability. The market's key players—including machine builders, IT systems integrators, and nascent artificial intelligence companies—are striving to win leadership through a combination of advanced capabilities such as artificial intelligence, automation, and IoT integration. These technology-driven differentiators not only enhance operational efficiencies but also shape customer engagement strategies, which in turn influence market positioning. As companies adopt a more sustainable approach to the way they operate, the demand for data historians that can support these initiatives is soaring. Strategic deployment trends are reshaping the market's competitive landscape, particularly in North America and Asia-Pacific. These developments must be closely watched by C-suite leaders if they are to seize opportunities and drive their companies forward.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions that integrate data historian capabilities with broader industrial automation and management systems.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| ABB Limited (Sweden) |
Strong global presence and integration capabilities |
Industrial automation and data management |
Global |
| AVEVA Group (UK) |
Robust software for engineering and operations |
Data management and visualization |
Global |
| General Electric Company (US) |
Advanced analytics and IoT integration |
Industrial IoT and data analytics |
Global |
| Honeywell International Inc. (US) |
Comprehensive industrial solutions and services |
Automation and data management |
Global |
| Siemens AG (Germany) |
Strong focus on digital industries |
Automation and data analytics |
Global |
| Emerson Electric Co. (US) |
Expertise in process automation |
Data management and automation |
Global |
| Rockwell Automation Inc. (US) |
Focus on industrial automation and information |
Automation and data solutions |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche technologies and solutions specifically tailored for data historian applications.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| IBM Corporation (US) |
Strong AI and analytics capabilities |
Data analytics and management |
Global |
| PTC Inc. (US) |
Innovative IoT and AR solutions |
IoT and data management |
Global |
| Aspen Technology (US) |
Focus on asset optimization and performance |
Data management for process industries |
Global |
| Yokogawa Electric Corporation (Japan) |
Expertise in process control and automation |
Industrial automation and data solutions |
Asia-Pacific, Global |
| ICONICS (US) |
Strong visualization and analytics tools |
Data visualization and management |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- OSIsoft (USA): Specializes in real-time data management and analytics with its PI System, recently implemented in several large-scale energy projects, challenging established vendors by offering superior integration capabilities with IoT devices.
- The company is based in the United Kingdom and is part of the AVEVA Group. It offers a complete data historian solution that is fully integrated with its engineering and operation systems. It has recently signed some deals in the manufacturing sector and complements the offerings of the traditional vendors by providing better data visualization and data analysis.
- Inductive Automation (USA): Known for its Ignition platform that combines SCADA and data historian functionalities, recently adopted by several mid-sized manufacturers, providing a cost-effective alternative to larger vendors.
- Kepware Technologies (USA): Focuses on industrial connectivity and data collection, recently partnered with major automation firms to enhance data historian capabilities, challenging established players by offering flexible and scalable solutions.
- Siemens (Germany): Their MindSphere platform integrates data historian capabilities with advanced analytics, recently implemented in smart city projects, complementing traditional vendors by leveraging their extensive industrial expertise.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the use of data historians in North America and Europe will be augmented by the increasing need for real-time data analysis in the manufacturing and energy industries. The newcomers will focus on specialized solutions that combine IoT and cloud technology, while the established players will reposition their products in order to maintain their market position. The trend towards open-source and flexible solutions will also open up the market to new companies and challenge the traditional players.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- In September, the two companies announced a partnership to integrate PI System with Microsoft Azure in order to optimize data analytics for the industrial Internet of Things and thus strengthen their position in the cloud data management sector.
- AVEVA acquired the data historian software company, Schneider Electric's Wonderware, to expand its portfolio in industrial software solutions, significantly increasing its market share in the data historian segment.
- Today, Siemens and Rockwell announced their collaboration to create a unified data-storage platform, which would combine the strengths of both companies. This would optimize data management in production processes and strengthen their position in the automation market.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Data Integration |
OSIsoft, AVEVA, Siemens |
Real-time data acquisition from different sources is the mainstay of PI System, with a number of case studies from the oil and gas industry. Similarly, the unified operation center of AVEVA provides seamless data integration and a high degree of operational efficiency. |
| Scalability |
Honeywell, Schneider Electric |
Honeywell's Process Historian Database is noted for its scalability, supporting large data volumes in manufacturing environments. Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure platform demonstrates robust scalability in smart grid applications. |
| Analytics and Reporting |
IBM, Microsoft |
IBM's Watson IoT platform provides advanced analytics capabilities, enabling predictive maintenance in industrial settings. Microsoft Azure's data services offer powerful reporting tools that enhance decision-making processes. |
| Cloud Compatibility |
Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud |
Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers a full range of cloud services that facilitate the functions of a data historian, with a large number of case studies in various industries. Google Cloud Big Query provides a very efficient data storage and analysis solution for companies looking for cloud-native solutions. |
| User Interface and Experience |
Rockwell Automation, Siemens |
Rockwell Automation's FactoryTalk offers an intuitive user interface that enhances user experience, particularly in manufacturing. Siemens' MindSphere provides a user-friendly dashboard that simplifies data visualization and analysis. |
| Security Features |
Honeywell, Siemens |
Honeywell's cybersecurity solutions are integrated into their data historian offerings, ensuring data integrity in critical infrastructure. Siemens emphasizes security in its MindSphere platform, with robust measures to protect sensitive data. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Data Historian Landscape
Data historians are the most widely used industrial information management system. The data historian market in 2023 will be characterized by intense competition and considerable fragmentation. Regionally, the demand for advanced data management solutions is increasing, particularly in North America and Europe. Data governance and compliance are the main drivers of innovation. Strategically, vendors need to position themselves by using new capabilities such as artificial intelligence, automation, and flexibility to meet changing customer needs. The incumbents are enhancing their existing products and services, while newcomers are disrupting the market with agile cloud-based solutions. As the market continues to evolve, decision-makers must focus on the right capabilities to ensure long-term success in a rapidly changing environment.
