CST035
Consolidate digital platforms and retire redundant systems to reduce cybersecurity exposure while expanding operational capability.
CyberTRIZ analysis · BrownFieldIndustrialProjects contradiction C14-CST035 · one of 8,235 worked contradictions published by CyberTRIZ.AI
Regulations
Digital Capability vs Technology Complexity
Business ContextAdding digital platforms, sensors, analytics, automation, connectivity, and intelligent tools can increase project and operating capability. Accumulating technologies without architectural discipline can also increase interfaces, maintenance burden, cybersecurity exposure, and support complexity.
Brown Field Industrial Projects TRIZ ResolutionIncrease digital capability by consolidating functions and removing redundant technology rather than continually adding platforms. Shared architectures, reusable services, standardized interfaces, and retirement of obsolete systems can expand capability while simplifying the technology environment.
Applicable TRIZ Principles
Principle 6 – Universality: combines multiple digital functions within common platforms or services.
Principle 2 – Taking Out: removes obsolete and redundant technologies.
Principle 1 – Segmentation: maintains clear modular boundaries between necessary digital functions.
Expected Outcome
Greater digital capability
Lower technology complexity
Reduced support burden
Improved system maintainability
Decision IndicatorsEarly indicators that this contradiction is limiting project performance include:
Every new capability introduces another standalone platform.
Similar digital functions exist in multiple systems.
Integration and support effort grows faster than delivered value.
Obsolete systems remain active after replacements are introduced.
Technology complexity makes troubleshooting increasingly difficult.
Monitoring these indicators helps organizations expand digital capability without creating an increasingly fragmented technology environment.