A Message from the Editor: ISA Enhances Automation Knowledge Sharing and Discussion

Summary

Have you ever found yourself with a technical question and didn’t know who to ask for help? The International Society of Automation has created a place where members can crowdsource answers and discuss details. Connect Forums represent a new avenue for ISA members to grow their professional networks and find answers.

Consider these queries:

• A member presented a dynamic process simulation with specific attributes and asked, “Is this a digital twin?” That question led to a lively discussion on terminology, which then evolved into an example of how digital twins are used for gas pipeline leak detection. Expanding even further on the topic was a new question about whether the same technology can be used for water pipe leak detection.
• “Our company is starting work on updating our grounding guidelines for designing and installing automation systems in the field. I am looking for some good reference material. Has ISA published anything related to grounding PLC/instrumentation systems?”
• “I recently got a project request from a customer that has kind of stumped me. Situation: The client is an OEM machine manufacturer that builds systems (collection of components). If they want their product to be ISA/IEC 62443 compliant and achieve an SL3, do they have to look to the SL requirements according to Part 3-3 or the Component requirements from Parts 4-1 and 4-2?”

Connect Forums are hosted on ISA Connect, ISA’s members-only community. There, ISA members engage with other automation professionals across industry sectors, dive deep into cutting-edge automation challenges and get real-world answers to their toughest questions on a wide range of technical topics.

ISA’s new Connect Forums reflect and serve the needs and interests of the society’s growing member base around the world. Professionals from Hong Kong to Houston can directly connect across industry sectors to
share experience and find new solutions. All can also grow as professionals for the duration of their careers by interacting with peers.

“Post new questions and answer questions from other members, share your knowledge and learn,” said Carlos Mandolesi, ISA’s Technical Assembly Chair and 2022 President. “We can create a better world through automation together.”

_{This feature originally appeared in the April 2025 issue of Automation.com Monthly.}