Industrial IoT

It might seem as though we’ve reached peak internet-related technology given the ever-increasing number of smart devices. That is not quite the case, however, as indicated by the growing interest in the Internet of Things (IoT). In fact, technological advances continue to increase. A lesser-known, but growing aspect of IoT is Industrial IoT which focuses more specifically on manufacturing technology.

Increased Investment in Industrial IoT

The IIoT is part of a larger initiative known as Industry 4.0, a term that refers to a digital transformation of manufacturing. This transformation will work to innovate the manufacturing process in order to provide the industry with new procedures and manufacturing execution systems. The potential for profit stemming from this transformation is one that has caught the attention of much of the industrialized world. Manufacturers from China, Japan, Germany, and the United States are among some of the most interested and are part of a group of manufacturers that are prepared to invest around $907 billion dollars annually for the next five years in Industry 4.0. This is according to PwC’s Global Industry 4.0 Survey for the year 2016.

Who are the key professionals for the successful implementation of IIoT?

You might be wondering exactly how you can get in on the ground floor of this fast-growing field. There are certain skills that will be highly valued. Do not underestimate the importance of network engineers! Technologists and IT professionals will be key contributors, but network engineers are the individuals who will connect everything and make sure that it all works. Another highly valuable skill that is vital to the IIoT field is cybersecurity. As new technologies and software are rolled out, skilled cybersecurity experts will be needed to identify and repair any vulnerabilities.

The future is bright for the IIoT, indeed, and we’re excited to see what the coming years bring to us all.

GeoTel is the leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure data, including carrier fiber route data, in a geographic information system (GIS). For over sixteen years, GeoTel’s data sets have been providing companies and government entities with the leverage and insight necessary to make intelligent, location-based business decisions. For more information or for a demo, please contact our experts at (407) 788-8888.