What we THINK about: the definition of “Internet of Things”

Not long ago, I was reading an opinion from an industry insider that suggested that “Internet of Things” should be renamed. My immediate reaction was why? Doesn’t everyone already know what it is?

Maybe they don’t. Maybe it’s like the early days of the internet. We all thought we knew what it meant: a network of servers talking to one another. But what it really meant was new ways of collaborating, conducting commerce, and getting information … life-altering capabilities.

Similarly, there’s the functional definition of an internet of things (IoT). It’s a network of things talking to one another. But what it really means is a whole new way of re imagining products, services, consumer expectations and even how we do business.

IoT - digital transformation

Inherent in IoT is the concept of digital transformation. That’s because it enables businesses to know more about their customers, react faster and serve them in new ways. And it also means the ability to add new value and – where appropriate – monetize new products and services.

This applies to all businesses, no matter if they create tangible products or software. And if this “new” definition of IoT seems broad, it’s because it is. But how businesses are digitally transforming design, development and operations is broad, too.

Explore the real meaning of IoT at Think 2018

If this idea makes you think about how to digitally transform your business, then there’s an event just for you. Think 2018 in Las Vegas. At Think, you’ll hear how consumer-driven companies like Whirlpool are transforming their businesses with AI and IoT. You’ll also hear from companies developing complex applications to deliver new value to their customers, including insurance specialist, Groupama, and banking leader, Zions Bancorporation.

THINK deeper with in-depth smart sessions and eye-opening demos

From thought-provoking, business-level keynotes to how-to sessions that explore technology best practices to hands-on labs, you’ll find information to help you shape your own digital transformation. In addition to the preview below, you can also build your own agenda, too, with Watson.

Sessions and hands-on labs:

Deploying Digital Products and Services in the Age of AI featuring Jaguar Land Rover
What is the Future for Connected Cars?
Minimizing Insurance Risk with IoT
Digital Twins in the Internet of Things: What, Why and How
Electra Connects Smart Air Conditioners with Watson IoT Connection Service
Improving Requirements Management with Watson
Lab: Beam Me Up, Watson! (note that there are multiple lab sessions are available)
Adopting Continuous Engineering to Enhance Requirements Management at Raytheon

Demos:

Connected Car Experience: Today’s cars are moving data centers and entertainment systems, and driver expectations are high. Visit the Connected Car experience to learn how IBM IoT for Automotive extends the power of cognitive computing. Discover a smarter way to drive.

Digital Twin Foundation: Discover how to create your own digital twin. We’ll show you how to connect the many inputs, requirements, models and a virtual abstraction that make up a digital thread, along with the foundation elements. Then it’s about linking the inputs and applying “reasoning” on top of the virtual construct. It’s a must-see for those exploring the power of a digital twin.

Expand your Thinking

While we may debate the term “internet of things”, we can all agree that we’re only scratching the surface digital transformation. That’s why you should join us at Think. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from, network with and be inspired by other industry leaders as we THINK about our future.

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