The first version of a twin is a learning instrument. Its job is to expose the parts of a problem that need attention before a larger build.
A practical starting set
- One clearly stated use case.
- A defined set of assets or processes.
- A small number of data sources with named owners.
- A view people can use to investigate the question.
- A documented set of assumptions and exclusions.
- A plan for reviewing the result with the people who know the system.
Separate the demonstration from the deployment
A concept can show an interaction without being connected to live operational data. Label it honestly. A working integration needs different checks, including access control, failure states and responsibility for maintaining the data connection.
Decide the next step from evidence
After a review, the best next step may be a better data inventory rather than more modelling. It may be a narrower scope, or a decision not to continue. A focused first twin should help the team make that choice.