The typical implementation process for the DataNow software is designed to be flexible, fast, and user-friendly, especially for manufacturing environments. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process and timeline based on available information:
DataNow supports both modern devices (e.g., Opto-22, Moxa) and legacy PLCs using MQTT with Sparkplug B, which simplifies integration without requiring hardware upgrades.
Configuration includes setting up time-series data functions such as alerts, events, messages, and notes tailored to the plant’s operations.
Dashboard and Reporting Setup
Scheduled exports in Excel or CSV formats are configured for ad-hoc analysis.
DataNow can be integrated with platforms like PowerBI, Zapier, and Geckoboard for extended analytics and automation.
For advanced users, the REST-compliant API allows real-time data manipulation, custom triggers, and integration with other business systems.
Training and Support
Unlimited email and phone support is available.
Users receive access to documentation, whitepapers, and guides for continuous learning.
Initial Setup: Can be completed in a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the complexity of the plant and the number of devices.
Full Implementation: For larger or multi-line operations, full deployment may take 1–2 weeks, including configuration, testing, and training.
DataNow is highly customizable to suit a wide range of manufacturing environments and business goals:
Flexible Configuration: Users can tailor time-series data functions such as alerts, events, messages, and notes to match their operational needs.
Custom Reports and Dashboards: Both standard and custom reports are available, allowing businesses to visualize data in ways that are most meaningful to them.
Logic and Calculations: Users can apply custom logic and perform calculations on incoming data to support specific workflows or KPIs.
Device Compatibility: Supports a wide range of devices, including Opto-22, Moxa, Raspberry Pi, and legacy PLCs, making it adaptable to various plant setups.
Third-Party Integration: Easily integrates with platforms like PowerBI, Zapier, and Geckoboard for extended analytics and automation.
Developer API: Offers full access to a REST-compliant API, enabling developers to create custom triggers, responses, and data collection actions.
This flexibility ensures that DataNow can be configured for both small standalone machines and complex multi-line operations.
DataNow uses a subscription-based pricing model designed to simplify budgeting and reduce risk:
No Setup Fees: Users can install the system themselves using provided guides, or request assistance. Either way, setup is included in the subscription.
Maintenance Included: Cloud hosting, backups, updates, and system maintenance are all covered under the subscription.
Unlimited Support: Subscribers receive unlimited email and phone support, along with access to how-to resources and documentation.
Known Monthly Costs: Pricing is structured to provide predictable monthly fees, helping businesses avoid unexpected expenses.
No Vendor Lock-In: The platform uses open standards (MQTT with Sparkplug B), ensuring flexibility and avoiding proprietary constraints.
This model is designed to be scalable, allowing businesses to expand or reduce usage as needed without incurring hidden costs.
DataNow provides a comprehensive and supportive onboarding experience for new users:
API Documentation: For developers, DataNow offers clear and secure API specifications and tutorials to enable custom integrations and automation.
This multi-layered support ensures that users, from operators to developers, can get started quickly and continue learning as they scale their use of the platform.
DataNow employs robust security protocols to ensure data protection and privacy:
Cloud Hosting in New Zealand: All data is stored securely by specialized infrastructure providers in New Zealand.
Continuous Monitoring: The database is monitored by both DataNow and an independent third party to ensure integrity and uptime.
Data Ownership: Customers retain full ownership of their data. DataNow does not use identifiable data for marketing or sell it to third parties.
Controlled Sharing: Data is only shared with third parties if they are directly involved in supporting DataNow or have been granted access by the customer.
Authentication Options: The platform supports secure authentication methods, including token-based and OAuth protocols.
Open Architecture: DataNow uses a secure, open architecture, ensuring users are not locked into proprietary systems and can freely export or integrate their data.
These measures reflect a strong commitment to data privacy, transparency, and user control.DataNow employs robust security protocols to ensure data protection and privacy:
Cloud Hosting in New Zealand: All data is stored securely by specialized infrastructure providers in New Zealand.
Continuous Monitoring: The database is monitored by both DataNow and an independent third party to ensure integrity and uptime.
Data Ownership: Customers retain full ownership of their data. DataNow does not use identifiable data for marketing or sell it to third parties.
Controlled Sharing: Data is only shared with third parties if they are directly involved in supporting DataNow or have been granted access by the customer.
Authentication Options: The platform supports secure authentication methods, including token-based and OAuth protocols.
Open Architecture: DataNow uses a secure, open architecture, ensuring users are not locked into proprietary systems and can freely export or integrate their data.
These measures reflect a strong commitment to data privacy, transparency, and user control.
DataNow handles updates in a fully managed and automated way as part of its cloud-hosted subscription model:
Automatic Updates: Users do not need to manually install patches or upgrades. Updates are handled by DataNow’s infrastructure team.
Cloud Hosting: The platform is securely hosted in New Zealand, which allows centralized control over updates, backups, and system maintenance.
No Downtime or Disruption: Updates are designed to be seamless, ensuring that users experience minimal disruption during rollout.
DataNow has a clear and user-centric policy regarding data ownership and portability:
Customer Ownership: All data collected through the platform belongs to the customer. DataNow does not claim ownership over user data.
No Marketing Use: Identifiable data is never used for marketing or sold to third parties.
Controlled Sharing: Data is only shared with third parties if they are directly involved in supporting DataNow or have been granted access by the customer.
Export Options: Users can freely export their data to common formats like Excel and CSV, or integrate it with other systems using the WebAPI.
Open Architecture: The platform is built on a secure, open architecture, ensuring users are not locked into proprietary systems and can move their data as needed.
Storage Location: Data is stored in New Zealand by specialized infrastructure providers and monitored by both DataNow and an independent third party.
This approach ensures transparency, flexibility, and full control for users over their operational data.
DataNow is designed to be highly scalable and flexible, allowing organizations to adjust usage as their needs evolve:
Modular Architecture: Whether you're running a single machine or a multi-line FMCG operation, DataNow can be configured to suit your scale.
Subscription Model: The platform uses a subscription-based model, which makes it easier to scale up or down without long-term financial commitments.
No Vendor Lock-In: Built on open standards like MQTT with Sparkplug B, DataNow ensures users can expand or reduce their setup without being tied to proprietary systems.
Customizable Reports and Dashboards: As operations grow, users can add more data points, alerts, and visualizations to match their evolving goals.
API Access: Developers can scale integrations and automation using the platform’s REST-compliant API.
This flexibility makes DataNow suitable for both small-scale deployments and enterprise-level rollouts.
DataNow operates under a Contract for Service, which includes clear terms for renewal and cancellation:
Customizable Terms: While based on standard conditions, contracts can be adjusted to suit specific business contexts.
This approach offers both structure and flexibility, allowing businesses to adapt their engagement with DataNow as needed.
It follows industry best practices for data security and privacy:
Data Ownership: Customers retain full ownership of their data.
Privacy Principles: Identifiable data is only used for support and troubleshooting, and never for marketing or resale.
Secure Hosting: Data is stored in New Zealand by specialized infrastructure providers and monitored by both DataNow and an independent third party.
Open Standards: Uses MQTT with Sparkplug B, maintained by OASIS and Eclipse foundations, ensuring secure and standardized data transport.
Commitment to Best Practices: DataNow commits to following best practices appropriate for its type and scale of business.
If your organization requires specific compliance (e.g., ISO 27001, GDPR), it may be worth contacting DataNow directly to confirm alignment or request documentation.
