5 Emerging IoT Trends To Look Out For In 2021
Did you know that the global Internet of Things (IoT) market is projected to reach a value of 1.3 trillion USD by 2026? This goes to show just how prevalent IoT solutions will be in the upcoming years. Referring to devices that are connected to the Internet and to each other, IoT has many consumer and business advantages. From improved vehicle tracking systems for the logistics industry to having access to real-time insights for facility management, IoT devices allow businesses to make quicker and smarter decisions.
More importantly, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown just how crucial IoT devices were in helping businesses ensure the safety of their employees and customers. With its numerous uses and benefits, it is safe to say that businesses should invest in IoT to remain competitive in the digital future.
As such, here are 5 Emerging IoT trends that businesses should take note of in 2021 and how they can incorporate them into their operations.
1. Emphasis on Cyber-security
Ensuring cybersecurity has become one of the biggest challenges in our rapidly digital world. As IoT devices can transmit large amounts of sensitive information (such as the movement of goods, vehicles, and health records), it is imperative for businesses to incorporate their devices with strong cyber-security measures. These measures can range from encrypting communications to sending employees for cybersecurity training so that they know what to do in the event of a cyber threat.
2. Development of Data Location Technology
With over 35 billion IoT devices projected to be in use in 2021, data location technology has become more important than ever. These devices form a network in which vast amounts of data can be captured and analysed to provide valuable business insights. For example, GPS tracking devices give fleet managers 24/7 visibility on their vehicles to ensure that they arrive at their destinations safely. Moreover, analysis of location data is useful in intelligent route planning so that drivers can choose the safest routes to make their deliveries. Location data is essential in facility management as well. With sensors transmitting real-time location data on assets and employees, businesses can respond to emergencies quickly and ensure that their assets are in good conditions at all times.
3. Usage of Data Analytics
The biggest advantage of IoT devices has always been the ability to present large volumes of data in a readable and digestible format for users. The next step would be incorporating tools that analyse the data to discover patterns and trends. This is particularly useful for fleet management systems as data analytics can help with route planning and monitor vehicle health so that companies can deliver goods efficiently and stay on top of maintenance. In addition, data analytics facilitates future forecasting so that businesses can anticipate customer demand and adjust their products accordingly.
4. Focus on Safety and Healthcare Applications
With the approval of viable COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring their safe transportation is of the utmost importance. As some of these vaccines are temperature-sensitive, IoT-enabled environmental sensors and vehicle-tracking systems will ensure that they can reach their destinations timely and in the right conditions. As mentioned earlier, IoT devices have been especially crucial in managing the pandemic through the use of smart temperature sensors, BlueTooth technology to facilitate contract tracing, and equipment to monitor patients’ health in healthcare facilities. Wearable IoT devices such as smartwatches that provide health statistics (e.g. calories burned, heart rate, blood pressure) saw an increase in popularity as well. Since more people are paying attention to their health, IoT will become a prominent feature in healthcare.
5. Better Workforce Management
As many companies had to work remotely to slow down the spread of the virus, connected devices allowed employees to access information and collaborate on projects without needing to share the same physical space. This has made remote working much more popular for both businesses and employees. For businesses in physical locations, using smart sensors allow them to monitor activity in multiple devices simultaneously and ensure quick response times during emergencies. With enhanced visibility and flexibility, businesses can be more efficient.
Moving Forward
The one lesson to learn from 2020 is how unpredictable events can be and the importance of contingency planning. As such, with IoT, businesses can put proactive measures in place – making them better equipped to prepare for the unexpected.
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