Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive overview of Open Process Automation (OPA), an industry-driven initiative aimed at transforming industrial control systems through the adoption of open architecture, standards-based approaches, and enhanced business practices. OPA seeks to address critical challenges in legacy control systems, such as lack of interoperability, high maintenance costs, and insufficient cybersecurity measures. The Open Process Automation Standard (O-PAS™), developed by The Open Group, provides a framework for scalable, modular, interchangeable, secure-by-design, and interoperable distributed control systems. This work synthesizes insights from a field pilot initiative between Schneider Electric and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO). The pilot project specifically demonstrates O-PAS requirements, leveraging IEC61499 architecture to implement a multi-vendor architecture. By integrating these perspectives, this paper highlights the advancements and practical applications of OPA, emphasizing its potential to reduce total cost of ownership, increase operational profitability, and foster innovation in the industrial automation landscape.
Kalbani et al. (2025) studied this question.