The challenge many enterprises face with an ever-growing network of connected ‘things’ is how to effectively capture and channel the data being exchanged. ‘Things’ in the Internet of Things (IoT) refers to any wire- or wirelessly connected physical object, including transportation vehicles, sensors, mobile phones or even people. This is where Machine to Machine (M2M) technology comes into play - M2M enables the connection of ‘things’.

This white paper explores M2M connectivity, including a definition of the concept and various connection options. It dives into how IoT applications are enabled by M2M, and describes the existing options for IoT connectivity. Next, a business case for global connectivity solutions through a relatively new hardware, Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (UICC), is presented. The case demonstrates how UICC technology could influence and shape both connectivity and business in the future. Furthermore, this paper will address questions of data management and security for manufacturers who are preparing for a global deployment of internet-enabled devices.

As examples, General Electric has pivoted its business to the Industrial Internet, while Rockwell Automation has firmly positioned itself as the Connected Enterprise company. Cisco Systems’ Cisco ONE software program marks a decisive shift in how its portfolio is packaged and monetized.

The paradigm of usage-based billing, initiated by the rise of the cloud and Software as a Service, is extending to all software and software-powered businesses. Stalwart vendors such as Adobe and Microsoft are at the visible forefront of the transition from perpetual licenses to subscription-based billing. The ripples reach deep within the industry; our research finds that three in four software publishers are already offering usage-based pricing options or are committed to adding this option. Figure 1 below shows the story in numbers for how the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm and software revolution translate into increased investment and revenues for industries.

Gartner, Report: Five Business Ecosystem Strategies Drive Digital Innovation, Marcus Blosch & Betsy Burton, 12, January 2016

With the Internet of Things, cloud and big data technology connectedness between people, devices and organizations exists in ways that it never could before. New products and services are possible as collaboration between businesses creates business ecosystems.

Gartner believes business ecosystems are set to become the foundation of successful business models. In this report Gartner explains:

• the need for business ecosystems strategies
• five distinct business ecosystem strategies
• and provides examples of organizations and industries implementing each one

To survive and thrive in our connected world organizations must look to implement business ecosystem strategies. Chances are your strategy towards digital is already in motion.

Download the Gartner research now to help keep it moving.

Respondents were mainly CxOs in companies which range from established players with millions of devices already deployed to new startups with ambitious growth plans.

• 61% of companies anticipate 10x growth over the coming year
• 70% estimate their addressable market to be in the millions of devices - and 9% in the billions
• The most common business model is a combination of up-front fee plus ongoing service fee
• Only 18% of companies describe their device management as “highly automated and slick”
• The biggest perceived risk of not managing devices well is risk to the growth of the company
• 86% of companies say that as far as managing devices is concerned, they’re either already in trouble, or expect to be within 12 months

Please note: Device Management Survey from DevicePilot can only be read by users who have logged in. Registration is free via the form on the right!

This Gartner report provides device manufacturers the information needed to help protect and monetise their intellectual property (IP).

Key Topics:

• Monetising software for new revenue - drivers and inhibitors of adoption
• Pros and cons for building or buying a license and entitlement management solution
• Emerging cloud options for integrating and supporting the Internet of Things

That’s because it requires expertise and experience in every aspect of IoT operation - from the communications chips embedded in the connected product, through cloud computing and network security, to end-user control of the product via a mobile or web-based application— to create a high-quality connected product.

Before deciding if they should tackle building their own IoT platform, manufacturers face additional questions:

• Do they have a clear understanding of what building an IoT platform entails?
• Can they build appropriate connectivity, security, responsiveness and reliability into every aspect of IoT operation?
• Do they have the in-house expertise in all the areas of technology that are involved, including their interactions and handoffs? If not, how much time and cost will it take to gain that expertise?
• Will we be able to keep pace with the technologies and users’ expectations as they continue to evolve over time?
• In the end, does it make more business sense to build or buy an IoT platform?

Please note: Build vs. buy, white paper can only be downloaded by users who have logged in. Registration is free via the form on the right!