Digital Communication - Post 3

“Big data and advanced analytics, the Internet of Things, digital modelling, additive manufacturing,
and computer integrated manufacturing. Industry 4.0 not only embraces each of these – and more -
but combines them together in order to make a whole that is vastly greater than the sum of its
parts”.

Discuss the Internet of Things and how it will affect businesses in South Africa. Identify a sector in the industry and detail how it will be impacted. Hint: Be very creative, take a moment and traverse into the future to envisage how life will evolve when everything becomes connected.

What Is the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things refers to any device like home appliances that can be connected or linked to the Internet. It has the potential to shift the way people do things, think and learn. This involves the advancements in technology and how that technology is beneficial in our lives as it enhances our day-to-day activities. It is a machine of interrelated computing devices, digital machines, people that are provided with unique identifiers and it has the ability to transfer data over a network without the need for human-to-computer interaction.

Everything will be faster

The Internet of Things will speed up the process of everything including traffic lights and public transportation. This is effective as it shortens the commute times for employees. This impacts organisations as there will now be faster deliveries. However, customers will start expecting and demanding more cost- effective service.

Energy and production will be cheaper.

Smart grid coordination makes energy cheaper. Machines will operate in new and smoother ways. Less money is spent to produce inventory and costs will decrease.

Productivity will increase.

The Internet of Things will improve productivity for businesses and it will decrease businesses expenses. The cost of upgrading devices will be expensive, but businesses will end up paying less for employees. These employees will increase the level of productivity.

  

Some industries will disappear or radically change.

Many industries may fundamentally change when the Internet of Things becomes mainstream. Some industries might become obsolete. Other industries might be in higher demand and will be more productive resulting in higher profits.