What IS the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things, otherwise known as IoT, is a popular topic to discuss both inside and outside of the workplace. This new concept impacts the way we work, and live, but it's not something that everyone understands. There are a lot of complexities involved in IoT, but here, we'll stick to the basics.
First of all, Broadband Internet is growing more widely available, with the costs of connections decreasing. More devices are being built with sensors and Wi-Fi capabilities, and technology expenses are falling while smartphone prevalence sky-rockets. This atmosphere is perfect for IoT.
What is IoT?
Basically, the Internet of Things refers to the idea of being able to connect almost any electrical device to the internet. These devices might include washing machines, coffee makers, smartphones, wearable devices, and just about anything else you can think of.
IoT can also apply to the components of machines, such as the drill in an oil-rig, or the engine of a jet. If the item has an off/on switch, then it can probably join the IoT. In a forecast published earlier this year, Gartner has said that there will be more than 20 billion devices connected to the internet by 2020. The IoT is simply the huge network of connected "things", including people.
How IoT Impacts You
It seems that the rule for the future is that anything which can be connected, will be connected. The potential for these devices is unlimited. For instance, you might be heading to work and your car has access to your calendar, so it can plan the ideal route. If there's too much traffic, your car might send texts to your partners, letting them know you'll be late. On the other hand, your alarm could wake you up at 6 am, and set the coffee machine brewing at the same time. Your office equipment could identify when it was running low, and order new supplies automatically.
