You may have heard the buzz surrounding the Internet of Things (IoT). The general definition of the Internet of Things is to give any device the ability to connect to the internet. Then, the device exchanges data with its associated cloud software and analyzes the information necessary to carry out your desired functions. Most Internet of Things devices functions using sensors, wireless connectivity, and data analytics software.
The Internet of Things may be making your personal life easier already. For example, every time you use your phone to find your car keys, retrieve workout information from a fitness board, and turn off the lights at home, you are already using the Internet of Things.
What can IoT applications monitor?
- Assets
- Facilities
- Products
- Customers
- Supply chain
What are the benefits of the Internet of Things?
- Increased control of expenses
- More efficient and responsive work procedures
- New business opportunities
- More comprehensive asset monitoring and troubleshooting
- Lessened dependency on staff members
- Transition manual work procedures into digital processes
How do different industries use the Internet of Things?
Several industries are already using the Internet of Things technology:
Healthcare:
- Patients can check vital signs at home using specialized scales and probes. From there, the technology will send information to the healthcare staff automatically.
- Healthcare facilities can track the temperatures of freezers storing medicines and vaccines remotely to prevent spoiling.
- Hospitals can track inventory by adding RFID tags to each item.
Manufacturing:
- Staff can monitor equipment remotely for malfunctions that can cause breakdowns and endanger the safety of workers.
- Sensors on the assembly line equipment can send status updates on production processes to managers
- Add sensors to inventory to prevent out-of-stock situations
Transportation:
- Staff can monitor vehicle diagnostics, fuel, location, and more, using a built-in computer
- Sensors on trailers can track if trailers contain any loads when the door opens, and when pallets move.
- Smart devices on vehicles can send data on driver behaviors to fleet managers
Food Service:
- Sensors in refrigerators can track temperatures so food will not spoil
- Customers can place an order at the table using a tablet
- Restaurants can allow customers to place their orders ahead of time from their app
Hospitality:
- Use a smartphone to check in, unlock your hotel room, and access amenities (pool, gym, parking garage)
- Guests that use the minibar automatically receive a charge if they remove any items.
- Hotels can track operations of their heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, and more.
As the Internet of Things becomes more widespread, you will discover new ways to optimize your traditional work processes. A business technology analyst, such as SwiftTech Solutions, can assist your organization in adopting new technologies that can solve problems and create growth for your business. For more information, please contact us by calling 877-794-3811 or emailing info@swifttechsolutions.com.
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