How The Internet of Things is Helping Small Business
Small Businesses of all types are learning to leverage the benefits of technology to boost their profitability and position themselves well in today’s competitive environment. IOT, or “The Internet of Things”, is a term that every business owner should familiarize themselves with as they rethink the ways they approach their businesses strategies.
What it is
Technically, the Internet of Things is a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique identifiers (UIDs) and the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction.
That is another way of saying that there is now a way for inanimate objects to communicate with each other without any human intervention. It is the internet specifically designed for things that humans use every day. It creates a smoother, more convenient and efficient experience for the user.
The technology goes beyond the use of smart phones and includes everyday objects like coffee makers, garage doors, and washing machines. As long as it has an IOT sensor, just about any object can become part of the network.
How it works
WiFi, Bluetooth, and other wireless technology is used to connect devices to the internet, and then to each other via cloud technology. Anything that can be connected, can serve as part of a series of events. For example, an alarm clock can connect to a coffee maker to make it easier to start your day. Traffic lights can be automatically adjusted for traffic patterns. You can monitor who is entering or leaving the house or just about any other behavioral pattern. Everything from tire pressure to heart monitors can be connected to the IOT.
Why Businesses Should Consider Using IOT
Automatically prepare supply orders
Monitor Inventory Levels
Automate processes
Reduce labor cost
Reduce waste
Understand customer behavior
Improve delivery systems
Enhance customer service
Improve decision making
Improve the customer experience
Enhance employee productivity
Collect data (such as weather) and adjust systems accordingly
Promote safety
Boost efficiencies and cost saving measures
Prevent issues and problems before they arise
Measure performance
Generate more revenue
IOT systems allow managers to control operations remotely. Every business is different, and not every application will fit every situation. But IOT allows business owners to tailor technology to their individual goals, priorities, and operational needs. As with any technology, precautions should be taken to implement security measures to prevent hacking and invasion and to protect confidential information.
