ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a hierarchical communications and data management architecture, where decentralized and local management decisions are coordinated by a central orchestrator that ensures the efficient global operation of the system. The defined architecture considers a multi-tier organization, where different management strategies can be applied to satisfy the different requirements in terms of latency and reliability of different industrial applications. In future industrial applications, the Internet of Things with its communications and data management functions will help shape the operational efficiency and safety of industrial processes through integrating sensors, data management, advanced analytics, and automation into a mega-unit. Industry 4.0 poses a complex communication environment because of the wide set of different industrial applications and services that will coexist, all of them demanding very different and stringent communication requirements.
