Designing the ‘things’ for the Internet of Things

Next year, there will be more connected devices on Earth than there will be people. Each of these devices can be used to capture insights and learnings to improve efficiencies, utilisations, and lifestyles. However, it is not just mobile phones and computers that are being connected to the web – manufacturing lines, oil and gas exploration equipment, train doors, and connected autonomous vehicles are all generating data. However, when developing a new connected device, it is important that several factors are considered. On the basis of the authors’ experience of developing connected devices, 42 Technology recommends that the following ten factors are thought through carefully.