Internet of Things

It's all connected. From comic-book enthusiasts to conspiracy theorists to new-age acolytes — many believe that those seemingly random dots do connect. And now the “Internet of Things” (IoT) might start us down that road.

According to the Tech Target website, “The Internet of Things” (IoT) is a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that are provided with unique identifiers and the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction.” In other words, providing a connection between these “things” and the internet is a way to create a “smart” environment by automating some daily activities of individuals and organizations.

Embedding the smart things with sensors and unique identifiers allows them to send and receive data via the internet. IoT innovations provide opportunities for organizations to measure and collect data and then use statistic models to analyze it, which could lead to a revolution in strategies to market products and services. As a result, the IoT provides avenues for many to become more efficient with their time, reduce costs, and improve their productivity and ways of life.

The good

Useful consumer devices