Cloud and IoT integration delivers critical business value
The enormous value delivered by the Internet of Things can only truly be realised if IoT devices are effectively integrated into the cloud.
While the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) has been around for some time, it has recently begun expanding rapidly, to the extent that it has been forecast that the number of IoT devices globally will reach more than 29 billion by 2030. The rising popularity of IoT devices is based on the valuable resources they provide to businesses, thanks to their ability to gather data, communicate with each other, and provide real-time feedback.
It should be clear that the rising numbers of IoT deployments should lead to enormous efficiency gains, as well as leading to significant growth in innovation. Of course, the above can only be achieved if seamless IoT integration can be achieved. Such integration – which is necessary to ensure that smart devices, applications, and databases work together – will allow businesses to harness the full power of connected devices, by enabling data flow, automating workflows, and unlocking actionable insights.
According to Ross Hickey, CEO and Founder of Trinity, a leading local IoT specialist, the foundation upon which this IoT ecosystem is built is the cloud, meaning that cloud development is crucial in providing the requisite infrastructure for managing the vast amounts of data generated by IoT devices.
“The cloud is a vital pillar that will enable you to undertake real-time analysis, implement remote monitoring, and ensure scalability. Don’t forget that cloud platforms are not only flexible, but also have the needed resources for storage and processing that enables IoT devices to function effectively. The cloud platform delivers a central hub for device communication and data management, while additionally delivering advanced analytics, in the form of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning,” he explains.
“Essentially, cloud integration enables IoT devices to send data to a central cloud, while also receiving commands and even interacting with other devices. What IoT cloud technology does, is it turns otherwise standalone devices into data-driven tools that are then able to communicate in real time.”
Integration layers
Hickey notes that this creates a vast ecosystem that allows users, devices, and software applications to share data between them, in a seamless fashion. This, in turn, makes it possible to leverage such benefits as real-time updates, remote monitoring, and automated responses, increasing efficiencies and driving innovation.
“There are three layers within an IoT cloud architecture that enable effective integration. The first of these – which includes physical devices such as wearable technologies, smart sensors and automation devices – is called the Device Layer. This is where data is collected by these various devices and sent to the second layer, known as the Cloud Layer.”
“This layer is at the heart of IoT cloud technology, as this is where the data from the device layer is stored and processed. At this level, data analytics and advanced computations are performed, before the processed data is sent back to the original device, or is shared with other connected devices.”
He notes that the third layer is called the Application Layer, and is the arena in which the users are able to interact with the processed and analysed data generated by the connected devices. It is within this layer that insights are received, data can be visualised, and various devices managed. And this can be done through virtually any Internet-enabled interface, utilising a range of advanced functionalities.
Without these three layers to create effective cloud integration, a user’s device would be significantly limited in terms of its capabilities, as it would only be able to function using it’s own local storage and processing power, as opposed to leveraging the vast storage capacity of the cloud.
Key benefits
“A critical benefit of good cloud integration is the ability to process data in real time, enabling the user to obtain immediate feedback and analytics in time-sensitive scenarios. Because the cloud is able to process and analyse data almost instantaneously, it can offer valuable insights in real time – which is perfect for scenarios such as industrial automation and proactive maintenance, traffic management systems, and especially healthcare monitoring solutions,” he says.
“Access to the cloud also enables continuous updates for devices, ensuring they remain both optimised and secured. The nature of cloud integration is such that seamless firmware and software updates are delivered as and when they are available.”
When it comes to issues of remote monitoring and control, cloud integration means that it is possible to manage your devices, wherever you are. It also enables remote monitoring and control capabilities, allowing users to access their devices from anywhere. This provides convenience and flexibility in performing tasks as simple as turning on your garden sprinklers from another province, or as crucial as checking your work security camera while you are on holiday.
“The final benefit of cloud integration for IoT is that it supports multi-device ecosystems. In other words, whether you are creating a smart home, facilitating an e-health environment, or implementing a proactive maintenance system with industrial IoT, it is possible to get all connected devices to collaborate, to synchronise, and to build automated workflows, all from within a centralised hub.”
“While achieving a connected and integrated cloud can be complex, as a multitude of issues – including connectivity, interoperability, security and scalability all need to be addressed – once you have succeeded, you will quickly see the difference as you gain valuable insights, obtain real-time feedback and benefit from enhanced automation. Moreover, you will also benefit from increased flexibility, improved disaster recovery and robust software and security updates. By integrating cloud and IoT effectively, your business stands to maximise its ability to operate, innovate and deliver,” he concludes.
