One major technological development in recent years is the Internet of Things (IoT). It is poised to transform products and businesses in countless industries within the next decade or less. If you are not yet familiar with the IoT, MACH Networks, a managed service provider in Carlsbad, CA, explains below what it is and how it may impact your business. 

What Is the IoT?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a term that refers to the recent boom in production of “smart” products, or products that can communicate with users or other devices via internet connection. The most familiar example of smart products are wearable devices like the Apple® Watch, but the term encompasses products from every sector, including Automated Teller Machines, video surveillance devices, refrigerators, thermostats, and light bulbs. The purpose of smart products is to automate processes and simplify the user's life. For instance, smart lighting can turn on automatically as you return home, cycle on and off while you are away to simulate occupancy, change colors to affect your mood, dim and brighten as your lighting needs change, or let you adjust lights in any room from a mobile device.

Why Is It Important?

At first glance, it seems like the only advantage of the IoT is financial. Investors are eager to invest their capital because they expect excellent returns. However, the real benefit to businesses is the customer relationships. A smart, connected product builds a continuing relationship between the customer and the company. This lets the business continually collect data, tweak the experience, and find ways to increase customer engagement and brand awareness. What was before a one-time transaction becomes a long-term service relationship.

Smart, connected products and the Internet of Things are in the process of altering countless industries, and wise business owners and managers will take notice. To learn more about what the future has in store, contact MACH Networks in Carlsbad, CA. They offer a number of Fully Managed LTE Solutions, including primary connectivity for branch offices and SD-WAN, back up connectivity and connectivity for IoT. Visit their website and LinkedIn to learn more. Call (866) 972-7677 to schedule a consultation with a member of their team.