About System Integrators

Much like beauty, a description of a control system integrator lies in the mind of the beholder.

For good reason.

From “pure-play” system integrators to the countless other manifestations of the profession – from automation product manufacturers and distributors to contractors and consultants – system integration is offered by firms of all sizes, experience, and understanding.

Fact is that a professional control system integration firm combines a little bit of the best of all of these:

A control system integrator takes a problem that may have some engineering input and that has general requirements and specifications and provides an integrated solution. An answer that includes final project engineering, documentation, procurement of hardware, development of custom software, installation, testing, and commissioning.

Control System Integrators Association defines an integrator as an independent (or profit-loss division) value-added engineering organization that focuses on industrial control and information systems, manufacturing execution systems, and plant automation that require application knowledge and technical expertise for sales, design, implementation, installation, commissioning, and support.

As the control system integration function becomes more understood – and more visible – the importance of clearly defining, delineating and delimiting the role of the pure-play integrator becomes paramount.

That clarity takes on even more significance as industrial automation hardware and software suppliers, resellers, distributors and others blur the line between themselves and dedicated control and information system integrators.

As the premier organization throughout North America and the world dedicated to the professional control system integrator, CSIA addresses these challenges.