How to succeed with IoT beyond the 5G hype

5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks. Its key contribution is significantly reduced latency compared to previous generations. This is, of course, highly beneficial for the IoT domain. Connected devices want to communicate in real time, and we want to see the water temperature, wind speed, movement in a room or the location of a cat right now.

The capacity of 5G networks will also be considerably greater than what we have seen before. This too benefits IoT. More devices can be connected simultaneously, and larger volumes of data can be streamed and transmitted at the same time. Organisations do not want to be constrained in their use of data, and this is a very clear trend.

It certainly sounds as though 5G will accelerate the IoT landscape. However, I would argue that technology is actually the easier part of an IoT solution. Connecting a device is rarely the main challenge. There may be difficulties in finding a sensor that meets all requirements, but the problem is not the connectivity itself, nor the ability to collect data. Capacity limitations, coverage issues or response times are not what cause projects to fail.

So what is the real issue? Why do so many IoT initiatives fail? There are, of course, many possible reasons. Below are some of the most common pitfalls seen when organisations decide they want to start working with IoT.

How does internal organisation affect IoT initiatives?

IoT is often treated as something separate from the rest of the organisation. Instead of being integrated as a natural part of everyday operations, it is handled by a small, isolated group. Successful IoT projects require the entire organisation to be aligned, with shared understanding, commitment and ambition. Strong leadership plays a crucial role here and carries responsibility for creating the right conditions for success.

Many organisations are unclear about what should be measured and for what purpose. While there is a strong desire to connect devices, few have carried out a proper feasibility study to define what should be connected and what value it should deliver. Before launching an IoT project, a thorough preliminary study should be conducted. This study must clearly define what is to be measured and what benefit it is expected to generate. The value of IoT solutions is not always financial. Benefits may relate to sustainability, environmental impact, time savings, efficiency, democracy or security.

There is often a perception that there is no time, no budget and no available people. A common misconception is that IoT projects are quick to deliver, inexpensive and require minimal involvement from the organisation. While this may be exaggerated, expectations of extremely fast and low-cost delivery are frequently placed on IoT initiatives. Developing a high-quality IoT solution that delivers long-term value requires a solid feasibility study. It will also likely require an upfront investment before the solution pays off in terms of efficiency, sustainability, security, democracy or, in some cases, financial return.

What pitfalls can arise later in the process?

Additional challenges can also emerge later in the process. These are the kinds of pitfalls that can cause even well-designed IoT projects to fail completely. More on that next time.

Consid can, of course, help you with the feasibility study. We are only an email, a text message, a phone call or even a smoke signal away. Get in touch via the form below and we will be happy to tell you more.