Digital integration is just the tip - the Internet of Things has unlimited potential.
As technology continues to smudge the line between our business and personal lives, the Internet Of Things (IoT) adds a new layer of connection to the lives of New Zealanders. The tech sector continues to grow, mirroring the ongoing adoption of technology and digital solutions both commercially and socially. 82 per cent of Kiwis now own a smartphone1, and connected-home technologies are transitioning from early-adopters to everyday life.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is often talked about, but few realise the benefits and scope of its potential. The ecosystem of connected devices provides convenience and an unanticipated level of automation, freeing up time in people's lives. It will transform the business world, as new digitised solutions introduce a range of issues, from cybersecurity problems to BYOD concerns, and to the age-old challenge of knowledge and IP management in a digital world. Consequently, the expertise of an onsite IT professional who can navigate tricky digital integration will be vital to business owners.
The Internet of Things is widely talked about, but few realise the benefits and scope of its potential.
You'll need the right people.
Adopting an IoT-first mindset for businesses requires thinking differently about technology. While digital products have long been useful to automate tasks, this new heuristic recasts tech as a functional team member, capable of combining processes, linking platforms and executing workflows to drastically impact business results. 14 per cent of New Zealand businesses have already integrated into the Internet of Things, with a further 63 per cent considering the same within two years2.
Integration requires a comprehensive understanding of the abstract theories of connection, not just the tech used. Fluency in the capability of different systems and a problem-solving mindset will all be skills in high demand, with IT professionals able to integrate your business' differing online devices to ensure you have full operational access.
What's it going to do for me?
Adopting an IoT framework offers better technological integration, better communications, connected employees and a stronger, less resource-intensive relationships with clients. With the right solution in place, you'll be able to automate tasks without losing personalisation, reduce inefficiency and decrease reliance on customised one-off software solutions.
IT professionals can help you install and maintain the functionality of internal business communications platforms, like Google Hangout, and real-time messaging services or 'Chat Bots', ensuring your business is always connected with customers and suppliers. The IoT will also see data centrally collated to give a fuller picture of your business, which will help improve operational efficiency.
Prepare yourself for the Internet of Things
The IoT will revolutionise the way we work, with government initiatives ready to be rolled out countrywide to support transforming businesses and communities into 'Smart Systems'. To be a part of this exciting change, you'll need the help of competent and tech-savvy IT professionals.
Luckily, we happen to know a few people who are good at this stuff. If you need them, please contact us.
1 -Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment 'Digital Economy' fact sheet.
2 -NZTech IoT Alliance 'Accelerating a connected New Zealand' report, p. 22.
