From fleet management to inventory management and security monitoring to equipment maintenance, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become an integral part of business operations in almost any sector today.
As the technology continues to evolve, many businesses now find themselves in a predicament: How to manage and integrate all the different technologies acquired piecemeal as new solutions hit the market.
Ross Hickey, CEO and Founder of Trinity, a leading local IoT specialist, says most companies start off managing IoT in-house, but soon realise that continuing to do so will be counterproductive. “That’s because DIY IoT sounds agile and cost-effective – until it scales. Managing one or two separate technologies in-house is fine in the beginning, but as companies acquire more IoT solutions, they see that managing them all separately actually takes away from the efficiencies these solutions offer. At enterprise level, DIY approaches to IoT quickly run into complexity, cost and control issues.”
The case for managed solutions
Today, connectivity is easy, but managing it isn’t, says Hickey. “Creating a cohesive connectivity system from diverse components is a very specialised field. Companies that initially try to avoid the costs of contracting in outside expertise soon realise that it’s a case of stepping over dimes to save pennies. Managing IoT systems in-house at enterprise level often requires more manpower, more time, and more resources than bringing in expert help. It also adds a layer of complexity, with integration issues and a lack of support that could lead to downtime. Eventually, self-managed IoT solutions can end up costing a lot more than outside expertise would have in the first place.”
In fact, studies show that around 50% of all DIY IoT projects fail, and organisations working with specialised IoT vendors have a much higher return on investment for these technologies than those who don’t. On top of that, DIY solutions can become a liability due to the security gaps caused by integrating several different systems and endpoints.
Managed solutions simplify and secure the entire chain, helping businesses scale their IoT systems to take full advantage of all the benefits these technologies can offer without compromising security.
Trinity, for example, secures connectivity through specialised SIMs and private IP networking for efficient data transport routes. The system is constantly monitored and has a rich set of live data feeds and real-time controls.
Clients can also choose to deploy Trinity’s proprietary hardware optimised for IoT or incorporate existing devices through API integration with Trinity’s software agent embedded. This creates a seamless workflow, enhancing operational efficiency without the need for complete system overhauls.
Choosing a provider
The hardest part about managed services is choosing the right provider – one who will not only set up systems now but will continue to provide the necessary support and solutions as your company’s needs evolve in the future.
Hickey says you should not only listen to sales pitches but do your own homework when choosing a provider, weighing up all they have to offer and how that fits your company’s unique needs.
Consider these points:
- Integration: Would you be able to integrate your existing hardware or need to overhaul the entire system? What about future needs – will you be limited to proprietary technologies or free to incorporate new technology as it enters the market?
- Connectivity: Will you have a private network and efficient data transport routes? Can this system transport application data within its protocols or as an independent deployment (as a ‘sidecar’)?
- Security: Does the provider offer robust security? Will it be constantly monitored and adapted as new threats arise?
- Platform: Is the management platform adept enough to be your main IoT platform, yet still meet unique requirements? Does it offer the features, live data feeds, and real-time controls necessary for seamless workflows in your company?
- Support: How readily will support be available when you need it? Will you have access to professional consulting services after the systems have been set up?
- Future needs: As your business needs evolve, will there be a pathway for deeper integration such as business-aware digital twins to more closely monitor operations? How will the system add value and efficiency to your business now and into the future?
The advent of IoT technology has certainly transformed business operations, but those looking to elevate their operational capabilities through strategic IoT utilisation need to take it a step further, says Hickey. “To truly unlock ROI from IoT, business leaders need to ensure they have infrastructure in place that supports scale, stability, and insight – not just connectivity.”