If you wear a FitBit, use Nest to set your thermostat, or have a built-in GPS in your car, you’ve already experienced IoT. But what is it, exactly?
IoT is an acronym that stands for “Internet of Things.” According to the Oxford Dictionary, the Internet of Things refers to “The interconnection via the Internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data.”
In simple terms, IoT refers to any device — from coffeepots to security systems — that is connected to the internet.
The Smart Life
With the widespread adoption of smartphones, innovators and entrepreneurs realized that they could connect everyday devices to the Internet.
Now, using the internet and apps on your phone, you can digitally control many devices in your household, no matter where you are.
People commonly use IoT devices in their homes for the following reasons:
- Save money: The Nest thermostat allows you to control your thermostat from anywhere with your phone, so you can avoid temperature-controlling your home when you’re not there. By smartly shutting off your climate control, you can save on your energy bill.
- Improve safety: Smart locks alert your phone whenever someone approaches your doors. Some smart locks can send pictures or video to your phone to help you identify your guest. Then, with a press of a button, you can unlock the door for your visitor — even if you’re at work.
- Set digital reminders: Samsung’s smart refrigerators allow you to create custom grocery lists, and can alert you when supplies are running low. They also allow you to view the inside of your fridge with your smartphone, so you can identify which ingredients you don’t have on hand.
- Comfort and convenience: Digital assistants, like Google Home or the Amazon Echo, can turn on music, adjust lights, play audiobooks, or set cooking timers through voice activation.
IoT for Business
Even if you’re not convinced that IoT has a place in your home, the business world has already adopted many IoT devices to improve efficiency.
Aerospace manufacturers like Boeing and Harris are developing “smart factories,” where machine lines can self-report if they’re broken, reminders for maintenance can be sent to managers’ phones, and productivity insights can be accessed via smartphone.
Supply chain operations are using IoT to increase efficiency as well. According to Datex, the IoT can alert all involved parties when there’s a load discrepancy, streamline coordination between warehouse operations and logistics providers, prevent loss and damage of goods, and more.
Similarly, warehouses are using IoT to automate their processes. By using RFID sensors to help distinguish products, and investing in automated robot pickers, warehouses are minimizing mis-ships and improving their order fulfillment time.
How to Get Started with IoT
IoT can seem intimidating, but adopting it for your business may be easier than you think.
Most businesses consult with network specialists or automation engineers to create a system that works for them. While there is some initial outlay of capital, the improved efficiency of operations — and potentially lighter staff — generally pays for the adoption itself in a matter of months.
If you want your warehouse, supply chain, or factory to keep up with the times, you should consider investing in IoT to improve your efficiency, infrastructure, and communication.
Vodigy Networks is a leading IT service provider in Minneapolis and St. Paul. We work with businesses to make technology simple, easy, and seamless. Contact us today.
