How IoT and AI are upgrading our neighbourhoods
Smarter communities are not only becoming popular, but more dependable as the population of Australia increases. They prove to be an excellent investment for councils by leveraging technology to improve transportation, medical services, utilities, and environment to enhance the quality of life for their citizens. In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) have been combined to collate accurate information for future decision-making, giving councils a competitive advantage.
The role of IoT in a smarter community
IoT is the invisible thread weaving a network that makes use of telecommunications and wireless infrastructure to connect devices embedded in buildings, bridges, roads, and public spaces. We call these devices machine-to-machine or gateways, and they collect and transmit information such as temperature, humidity, traffic flow, energy consumption, and air quality. However, what were once pockets of information have now grown into a sheer volume of data that can be overwhelming and, at times, impossible for humans to analyse. This is where AI comes into play.
The intersection of IoT and AI
AI simplifies information by using machine learning to analyse the data collected by IoT devices, identifying patterns that are then shared through platforms that target specific needs. There are four primary types of platforms:
Device management platforms connect, manage, and maintain IoT devices to ensure everything is up and running and, most importantly, updated. They can easily organise diagnostics and troubleshooting when needed.
Connectivity and network platforms allow communication between devices, so they can transmit data sharing, mapping, and network management between themselves.
Data and analytics platforms process, store, and then analyse the data generated by IoT devices.
Application Enablement Platforms (AEP) provide the tools required for businesses to build, deploy, and manage IoT applications.
Getting started with the IoT and AI combo
Embarking on the journey to implement IoT and AI solutions for smarter communities doesn’t require a PhD. It’s all about finding the right fit for your community’s needs. The ideal solution should be compatible, scalable, flexible, secure, and compliant, all while meeting your desired deployment speed. At Ericom, we’ve honed our expertise to ensure success, guiding you through a streamlined process to build your community’s existing – or dream ecosystem. Here’s how we can get you started:
- Define objectives and scope: Clearly outline what you aim to achieve and the extent of your project.
- Assess current infrastructure: Take stock of your existing systems and technologies, which will help to understand how new solutions can be introduced.
- Identify key stakeholders and risks: Pinpoint who will be involved and potential challenges that may arise.
- Develop a detailed project plan: Lay out a comprehensive roadmap with timelines and milestones.
- Pilot and refine: Start small to test the waters, then iterate and improve based on feedback.
- Rollout and monitor: Implement your solution across your community while keeping a close eye on performance.
- Evaluate and optimise: Continuously assess results and adjust to optimise efficiency and effectiveness.
- Add new use cases: As you grow accustomed to your IoT and AI integration, explore additional ways to leverage these technologies for further benefits to your community.
With Ericom’s expert guidance, navigating the roadmap to modernise your community with IoT and AI becomes seamless. Contact Ericom’s Future Technology team at engage@ericom.com.au today to kickstart your journey toward successfully transitioning your community into a smarter future.
7 June, 2024
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IoT and AI work together to collect data from the neighbourhood, providing trends for decision-making and supporting automation for efficient management.
