A few years ago, the Internet of Things (IoT) wasn’t even a thing! Today we’ve found a reason to embed a URL into everything from toasters to doorbells, dog collars to running shoes. What’s next? Dental floss! (Oh wait, that’s already happened!)
All kidding aside (okay, there may be a bit more kidding,) let’s take a minute and highlight some of the basics, and what the IoT could do for your manufacturing business.
What is the IoT?
Merriam-Webster: The networking capability that allows information to be sent to and received from objects and devices (such as fixtures and kitchen appliances) using the Internet. The Internet of Things really comes together with the connection of sensors and machines.
Urban Dictionary: In tech world, it stands for “Internet of Things”; literally means physical objects with internet capabilities such as smart watches, cars, buildings, etc.
Does the Internet of Things have a place in Manufacturing?
For companies looking to reduce costs, improve operational efficiencies, get products to market faster and improve safety for their workforce, the answer is YES! It even has its own abbreviation – IIoT, (Industrial Internet of Things.)
Where IIoT Solutions Excel in Manufacturing…
- Monitoring equipment utilization to improve productivity.
- Product quality monitoring, dispositioning, and compliance data collection and analysis.
- Keeping workers safe by automatically shutting down machinery when safety curtains are crossed, and monitoring for over exertion or health issues.
- Keeping track of industrial assets for location and utilization.
- Managing inventory location, tracking, reporting, and reordering.
- Basic facilities management, including lighting and HVAC controls.
You Also Need To Think About…
- ROI – How quickly can your solution start to pay for itself?
- Data Security – No business is 100% secure when it comes to data security. What’s your plan to minimize your risk?
- Qualified Workforce – Who will manage and execute IIoT related initiatives and outputs?
- Integrating Systems – IT meet OT. OT meet ERP. New wave systems meet legacy systems. How do we get everyone talking and working together?
The first step is the hardest. We can help.
Small changes can make big impacts. Let our team help create, justify, execute and support your plan for creating a “Smart Facility” one sensor at a time. Contact us today for a free consultation, or check us out on LinkedIn to see the latest integrated technologies in action.
Speaking of sensors, my FitBit just buzzed. Time to get my hourly steps in!
