The Internet of Things: How will it impact your Business Systems?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is already transforming our lives.

What is IoT? Simply stated, it’s the networking of physical objects or “stuff” embedded into our electronics, software, sensors, etc. The connectivity promises value by sharing data with users, machines, and other connected devices using internet infrastructure.

Here's how the Internet of Things might impact your business.

Some Examples

A great example of the IoT is the IntelligentHome solution by Time Warner. This package proposes:

• 24/7 Monitored Protection

• Live Camera feeds to your smartphone or computer

• Conserve energy by managing the temperature and lighting of your home from anywhere on any device

• Immediate mobile alerts when sensors are triggered

This instant information is collected and shared using network connectivity directly to your smartphone. It’s literally changing how we live. Imagine this scenario… your teenager comes home from school while you’re at work. First, the door sensor triggers an alert to your smartphone. Then, you connect to a live camera feed from your office computer to confirm the person. Finally, you initiate a block to access the TV or home internet access until homework is finished. It’s not farfetched anymore!

Business Impact

The question is, how will the IoT impact your business in the future? What we know is that the IoT changes how we consume data. No longer is it acceptable to just report information. We’re moving from:

As you transition your information from descriptive to prescriptive, your company’s competitive advantage increases because of how you consume and leverage the data. Experts agree and predict that the IoT will explode in the coming years in ways we can’t even image yet.

Imagine how this technology might be applied in your business:

• A sensor on a critical machine component that can warn of potential failure from overuse followed by a text alert to the maintenance & production teams indicating a bin location for the part or a PO to expedite its purchase.

• A notice to the dispatcher that a delivery driver is off-course prompting a response with mapped instructions to get back-on-track.

• Particulate Matter Sensors in a processing plant warning of introduction of allergens, halting a production line, and minimizing contamination & waste thereby eliminating potential recalls.

• Predictive inventory planning for stock-outs and rate shopping of suppliers along with availability before automatic electronic POs creation.

With the IoT, the possibilities are limitless. The team at RKL eSolutions is keeping current with technology and networking infrastructure to apply these tools for our customers’ growth.  How will IoT impact your business?  I don’t think we’ll be waiting long to find out.