An Assessment Framework for IT/OT Convergence Maturity in Industrial Environments

The growing convergence between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) has reshaped industrial environments by enabling digital integration, advanced analytics, and cyber-physical connectivity. However, this integration also increases the exposure of industrial systems to cyber risks, interoperability challenges, and governance complexity. This study proposes and applies a six-dimensional maturity assessment framework to evaluate the current state of IT/OT convergence in Brazilian industrial organizations. A structured survey using Likert-scale metrics was administered to professionals across multiple industrial sectors, capturing perceptions of system integration, interoperability, cybersecurity practices, governance structures, data management, and enabling technologies. Results reveal intermediate maturity levels in system integration and interoperability, while cybersecurity, data governance, and coordinated IT/OT management remain underdeveloped. The findings highlight persistent barriers to digital transformation and reinforce the need for targeted governance, cybersecurity strategies, and data-driven practices in industrial operations. The study contributes a preliminary diagnostic tool that can be replicated and expanded in future evaluations of digital maturity within Industry 4.0 environments.