Digital Twin in Industrial Networks: A Cost-benefit Analysis in Operational Technology

Security in Operational Technology (OT) networks faces different challenges when compared with traditional networks. In OT environments, availability and visibility are prioritized over data integrity, leading to unique cybersecurity concerns. The start-up narrowin offers a digital twin software solution with which companies can scan their existing network topology. With this visibility, they can optimize and monitor their infrastructure and ensure the availability of the OT network. However, despite the known benefits of digital twins, their adoption in the industry is limited.

This research aims to identify the underlying reasons for the limited adoption with a newly developed approach to understand customer requirements. Aligning the digital twin software with current market needs could foster wider adoption and therefore, reduce security risks in OT networks through increased visibility. A use-case-driven roadmap was developed to guide future software enhancements.

The research process consisted of interviews and workshops with experts active in OT-network environments. The insights of these interviews were used to identify product features, highlighting gaps in the current implementation of the digital twin. A comprehensive Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) evaluated product features for their market value. Finally, the interview findings and the CBA were combined to create a suitable persona, with which the current gaps of the digital twin can be targeted.

To conclude, the thesis provides insights on how customer specific challenges of a digital twin software can be addressed. The research contributes to the goal of enhancing cyber security and operational excellence in industrial environments.