Turning Data into Valuable Insights: Cloud-based Monitoring Solutions for Reliable and Efficient Railways

Data lies at the heart of efficient and reliable railway operations: Monitoring and maintenance services, like Frauscher Insights, convert data from field elements into a foundation for intelligent maintenance strategies. Intuitive dashboards and reports give operators a continuous overview of system health, performance metrics, and optimisation opportunities.

With these insights, predictive maintenance becomes a reality: potential failures can be identified and addressed before they impact service. This not only increases operational efficiency but also enhances system availability, and ultimately ensures a more reliable experience for passengers.

At Frauscher, we recognise that cloud-based solutions for safety-critical railway infrastructure often raise questions about the compatibility of safety and security. This compatibility is ensured through strict separation between vital operational technology (OT) and non-vital information technology (IT), which is achieved by inserting a unidirectional gateway between these two networks.

In addition, Frauscher addresses security requirements by implementing robust cybersecurity measures such as dedicated security roles, threat modelling, vulnerability testing, supply chain risk management, and incident handling via the Frauscher PSIRT (Product Security Incident Response Team), all in accordance with IEC 62443-4-1 standards. This approach enables the secure deployment of cloud-based systems while maintaining the highest standards of operational safety.

Adopting cloud-based solutions is a strategic decision for railway operators, allowing maintenance to be treated as an integrated part of a modern operational model rather than an isolated task. The benefits are clear:

• Greater transparency of assets, processes, and maintenance histories

• Improved efficiency through up-to-date software and centralised control

• Streamlined operations through data-driven decision-making and flexible resource planning

• Increased competitiveness through faster adaptation to evolving operational requirements.

Beyond diagnostics, cloud-stored data be leveraged for multiple purposes. Operators can access additional KPIs and operational data through analytics tools such as Power BI in a fast and user-friendly way. Data can be integrated into legacy systems via standardised interfaces, for example in asset management applications, ERP or HRDS platforms. By enabling these capabilities, cloud services such as Frauscher Insights help operators turn raw data into actionable insights, optimise workflows, and fully integrate maintenance into their digital operations strategy.

First, data is not information. Raw data from diagnostic recorders require interpretation and enrichment. As a cloud-based solution, Frauscher Insights efficiently refines this data using input from technical stakeholders in operational environments, customer service teams, and ongoing development efforts. This ensures that Frauscher Insights continuously evolves and remains aligned with the latest operational and technical know-how. 

Second, data is not for diagnostics only. By enabling further analyses, such as KPIs, Frauscher Insights provides additional value beyond fault detection. The generated information gives operators a comprehensive overview of system performance and the operational processes across the railway network.  

Third, clear guidance matters. In highly available systems, fault scenarios occur rarely and therefore are not always part of everyday operations. Frauscher Insights supports operators with clear, actionable guidance for these infrequent situations, enabling them to identify and resolve issues quickly and confidently before they escalate.

Overall, Frauscher Insights supports a predictive approach to maintenance and service, enabling operators to address issues before they impact system availability and performance.