“We’re still in the first minutes of the first day of the Internet revolution.”—Scott Cook
Pew Research noted that the Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded devices are moving from a sci-fi dream into reality. The possibility of having everything from your refrigerator to the fork-lift operator’s work goggles online is bewildering. The IoT will alter the business landscape dramatically through the enhanced use of data: With the power to collect information like never before, new business opportunities will open up, cost-cutting measures can be clearly identified, and problems can be managed before they overwhelm your business. Developing a proactive strategy for dealing with the IoT puts you in the driver’s seat and allows your company to harness its power.
Be Clear About Your Objectives
While the ability to have every object in your work environment be connected might sound great—you can finally find out who is using up the extra coffee filters—it’s vital to consider how the IoT can really fit in at your company. Can adding connected devices increase the accuracy of orders in your warehouse? Does it make sense to start putting sensors in key areas? How can the IoT be incorporated into your business plans? Will wearables bring value to your employees—or will they be perceived as micromanagement?
Money Talks
Once you begin brainstorming about the best way to implement the IoT in your workplace, it will become clear that there are many avenues of opportunity. All of the IoT implementations will require an investment in continuous maintenance. Take a hard look at your resources: many small companies don’t allocate enough for their tech departments or support. With the IoT, enterprises on the leading edge need to honestly approach budgets and develop measures that allow for more investment in technology. Providing your company with a sound tech infrastructure will save money going forward—and may even put you ahead of many large companies.
Small and mid-sized companies can implement the IoT as part of their growing infrastructure, making use of the technology grow more organically with the needs of the expanding business. Budgeting for near-term solutions includes identifying the best IoT devices for your current needs; long-term solutions should focus on managing and growing the tech around your business model.
Private Eyes
The IoT brings vast swaths of data to your doorstep, but without the right security, it could also be delivering it to your competitors. Creating privacy protections for customers and employees needs to be at the forefront of any IoT plan. Privacy protections should be implemented at every level of the business. Hardware and software need to be carefully selected, maintained, and updated regularly. Staff need training on how to implement and use the new technologies. Having clear guidelines about protecting staff and consumer data sends the message that you care about protecting those who are involved with your brand.
The Right Staff Will be Critical
Incorporating the IoT into your business plan will mean expanding staff training, as well as the number of employees with the skills needed to compete in the new IoT business environment. Investing in hiring individuals with specialized skills will be critical. Planning for the inevitable revolution in technology puts your company at the leading edge of change. The IoT will keep expanding its reach, providing more opportunities for growth and investment. With a strong plan and an eye on the future, your company can harness the power of the IoT and bring it to your customers. Contact us for more information or questions about recruiting potential employees for IoT.