Global research shows that IoT is a priority to drive digital transformation

IoT has become the leading technology of digital transformation and is a number one priority for 92 percent of organizations, according to global survey results published today by Inmarsat (LSE: ISAT.L), the world's leading provider of mobile communications. global via satellite. The Inmarsat Research Program study focused on the enterprise application of the Internet of Things (IoT) revealed that machine learning (38%), robotics (35%) and 3D printing (31%) are also essential requirements for effective delivery of the digital transformation for companies.
 
Conducted independently by Vanson Bourne on behalf of Inmarsat, the Inmarsat Research Program's "Future of IoT in Business - 2017" surveyed 500 senior respondents across agri-technology, energy production, transportation and mining organizations with more than 1,000 employees.
 
Key results reveal that nearly all (97%) respondents are experiencing, or expect to experience, significant advantages of deploying IoT technologies. Improved service delivery capability (47%), better health and safety across the organization (46%), and increased workforce productivity (45%) were identified as the top three benefits to be gained from deploying solutions based on IoT.
 
However, the survey also highlights concerns about security, lack of skills (particularly in IoT deployment), and connectivity as key challenges that need to be addressed to maximize the potential of the IoT. Nearly half (47%) of respondents believe their organizations will need to rethink their approach to data security and make heavy investments to meet IoT security requirements. Some 45% cite lack of skills as a specific challenge for their organization in IoT deployment, while 29% agree with the statement that connectivity issues threaten to affect their IoT deployments before they even begin.
 
Paul Gudonis, President of Inmarsat Enterprise, commented: “The development and deployment of IoT is a new phenomenon that has spread across all industries in all parts of the world, and this survey confirmed that IoT is the leading technology in digital transformation. , with firm leadership ahead of other forms of innovation. The IoT acts as the eyes and ears of organizations, and its value comes from how the data collected is used to improve effectiveness across the organization. As such, it is not surprising that so many organizations are deploying the IoT to drive their digital transformation initiatives.
 
“This does not mean, however, that challenges are absent. The survey points to clear concerns, particularly with security, skills and connectivity. The increasing interconnectivity of devices, coupled with a heightened cybersecurity landscape and a lack of relevant skills, brings a host of problems. To overcome these challenges, collaboration is key."
 
“Developing new technologies is a complex activity and relies on different types of skills. Reliable network infrastructure providers that can operate anywhere in the world need to work closely with end-user companies to ensure they understand your operational needs. Inmarsat is working globally with our network of partners to drive innovation through our expertise in IoT solutions and satellite connectivity,” concluded Gudonis.
 
The survey “The Future of IoT in Business – 2017” is accessible as an intelligence document and can be downloaded here: http://research.inmarsat.com/.