Internet of Things is the concept of connecting any device to the internet and also share data to the other devices that are also connected to the Internet. The Internet of Things is a giant network of connected things and people – all of which collect and share data about the way they are used and about the environment around them.
The Internet of Things includes an extraordinary number of devices or objects of all shapes and sizes – from smart microwaves, which automatically cook the food for the right length of time, to self-driving cars, whose complex sensors detect objects in their path, to wearable fitness devices that measure the heart rate and the number of steps one has taken that day, then use that information to suggest exercise plans tailored to the person that uses it.
Devices and objects with built in sensors are connected to an Internet of Things platform, which integrates data from the different devices of the users who are using it and applies analytics to share the most valuable information with applications built to address specific needs to those users. These powerful Internet of Things platforms can pinpoint exactly what information is useful and what can safely be ignored. This information can be used to detect patterns, make recommendations, and detect possible problems before they occur.
The Internet of Things has been in existence for some time and due to them many advances has been made in a number of different technologies. Internet of Things has made many access to affordable and reliable sensors with low-power sensor technology; connectivity through the Internet; cloud computing platforms for businesses and consumers to access their infrastructures; advances in machine learning and analytics; and also, conversational artificial intelligence through natural language processing.
Internet of Things is also used in Industries in industrial settings, especially with respect to instrumentation and control of sensors and devices that engage cloud technologies. With the emergence of analytics and machine learning, industries can achieve a new automation layer and create a new revenue and business models for their businesses. Some of the common uses of Industrial Internet of Things are: Smart power grids, Smart cities, Connected and smart logistics, Smart digital supply chains, Preventive and predictive maintenance, etc.
Many Industries have benefited through the Internet of Things by using the sensor devices in their business processes. For example: Internet of Things applications allow retail companies to manage inventory, improve customer experience, optimize supply chain, and reduce operational costs; Internet of Things can also be used to improve worker safety for those who work in hazardous environments like mines, oil and gas fields, and chemical and power plants, etc.
The platform of Internet of Things can help organizations reduce their cost by improving the process efficiency, asset utilization and productivity. With improved tracking of devices/objects using sensors and connectivity, they can also benefit from real-time insights and analytics, which would help them make smarter decisions. The growth and convergence of data, processes and things on the internet would make such connections more relevant and important, creating more opportunities for people, businesses and industries.