What is IoT? - Approaching its essence and value | Introduction to IoT architecture

It has been 18 years since the term "Internet of Things" was coined in 1999. The term IoT is currently gaining momentum in the IT industry, with hardly a day going by without hearing about it. So, what exactly is IoT? Let's take a look at the true nature of IoT.

What is IoT? - Understanding its essence and value

Connecting things to the cloud

The term "Internet of Things" literally means "Internet of Things." Generally speaking, it refers to the fact that various things, not just computers and smartphones, are connected to the Internet, bringing new value to our lives and businesses.

So, what exactly is this "thing" that brings about this new value? What kind of new value can be obtained? I'm sure each of you will have a different answer.

Due to the nature of our work, we have the opportunity to discuss IoT with people from a variety of positions, and one thing they all say in common is that the term IoT has a broad scope and it is difficult to grasp its actual meaning.

For example, on one hand, there was talk about consumer wearable devices like the Apple Watch, while on the other hand there was talk about remote management of large-scale construction equipment, so the points of discussion and perspectives were often all over the place.

Perhaps because of these characteristics, there are still many people who refer to IoT as a "buzzword."

IoT is a tool for generating innovation

So what is the essence of IoT?

We believe that IoT is a means and tool for generating innovation.

When cloud computing first appeared, skeptics of the format unanimously pointed out its necessity: how was it different from the current data center housing model, how was it different from VPS, and was there any need to go to the trouble of using the cloud?

I remember hearing such arguments often. However, today, the cloud has become an indispensable option for system infrastructure. Moreover, many innovative services and businesses are being created that take advantage of the characteristics of the cloud.

In a similar vein, we often hear discussions about IoT, such as how it differs from existing M2M and mobile services, but this seems to miss the point.

Ultimately, IoT is merely a tool or a means, and the essence of an IoT system is how to use that tool to create innovation.

The value that will be created by realizing this system and how it will change our lives will depend on the position of the people and companies that use IoT.

Some people may use it for healthcare, others for payments, and the shape and form of IoT will change dramatically depending on who is using it.

However, in reality, IoT is one of the means to create innovation, and it is a means with an extremely high potential for creating innovation.

There is no reason not to use it as one of your options.

IoT application scenarios

So, let's take a look at what specific value can be achieved when using IoT, and break it down a bit further to summarize what types of IoT systems and services exist.

As I explained earlier, IoT is merely a tool, so the possibilities are endless. I believe that in the future, many new systems and services that take advantage of the characteristics of IoT will be born.

We believe that the systems that can be considered at this time can be roughly summarized into the following categories.

Making the most of IoT

Like the cloud, it's hard to say that IoT has no bearing on anyone involved with IT systems. It's a form of new service model, and has the potential to change the way systems are architected.

I believe that making good use of IoT will be a key factor in surviving the coming era. Let's make good use of IoT as a service model and system architecture.

Next time, I would like to explain the specific points to consider when building an IoT system.

Introduction to IoT Architecture Column List

Related Content