Choosing a SCADA system is one of the most consequential technology decisions for any industrial operation. The wrong choice creates long-term lock-in, unpredictable costs, and operational risk. This whitepaper explores the key questions every organization should ask when evaluating SCADA systems.
Key Questions to Ask
What to Look For in a SCADA System
1. Web-based architecture
Modern SCADA should run in any browser without client software. Operators should access it from Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android without installing anything.
2. Native PLC drivers
Avoid middleware. The SCADA system should communicate natively with Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley (EtherNet/IP), Modbus TCP, OPC UA and other major protocols without an OPC server layer.
3. Unlimited clients
Licensing per connected client creates unpredictable costs as your operation grows. Look for server-based licensing with unlimited client connections included.
4. Scalability
The system should handle from a single machine to multi-site enterprise deployments without architectural changes.
5. Security
HTTPS by default, role-based access control, full audit logging, and support for VPN or hardware-encrypted tunnels.
6. Offline resilience
Data should be buffered locally when connectivity is lost and synced automatically when restored. No data loss during network interruptions.
7. Vendor independence
Avoid proprietary file formats and lock-in. Choose systems that use open standards for project files and communication.
+1. Total cost of ownership
Evaluate the full picture: licensing, hardware requirements, support costs, and upgrade pricing over 5–10 years — not just the initial quote.
Protocol Support
Communication protocol support is a critical differentiator. A SCADA system with broad native driver support eliminates the need for OPC server middleware, reducing latency, cost, and failure points. Key protocols to look for: