Internet of Things (IoT)

Graphics courtesy of ZDNetOpens in new window The most recent increase in the use of digital information technology is driven by the jump from the Internet that connects people to the Internet of Things. Internet of Things (IoT) refers to impersonal “things” that are connected and can themselves generate and receive data by communicating with each other. The term Internet of Things was coined by the British technology pioneer Kevin Ashton in 1999.

Previously, the Internet had been dependent on people for its supply of information. But now impersonal “things” can themselves generate and receive data.

Now things are connected and can communicate with each other. Billions of devices, including laptops, PCs, and especially smartphones, generate trillions of data points.

Connecting devices to automated analytical systems makes it possible to gather information, analyze it, and create a response without human intervention.

Now every “thing” can have a chip inserted to communicate data to other devices. A “thing” could be a hairbrush, a home thermostat, a shirt or dress, a toaster, a refrigerator, a fitness collar for your dog, or a baby thermometer.

In business, countless tiny sensors can be woven into things as large as a jet engine or a railroad locomotive or a factory machine, all of which are transmitting data via the Internet.

Each of these dumb items can become smart, with capability for two-way communication. For example, in a “smart” home, keyless door locks send a text message when activated and containers holding medications “note” whether a patient has taken prescribed pills and send an email or text message reminder.

The IoT also enabled the latest innovation in digital organizing, which is a new platform-based form of organization. Siemens wind energyOpens in new window business provides an illustration.