Internet of Things (IoT) in the Federal Government

The IoT is changing the world. In the 1990s, the internet began connecting all computers. By the end of that decade, cell phones began connecting all people. And now, IoT devices are connecting all objects. We will soon exist in a reality where nearly all electronic devices will be globally interconnected – constantly being measured, tracked, and controlled by central cloud-based processors.

The explosion of the IoT will be enabled by falling manufacturing and connectivity costs as well as innovations in cellular communications (5G and beyond) and Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning. Eventually, the IoT will be used ubiquitously to provide real-time insights into every asset, process, and system owned by an organization. The integration of the IoT in the federal government is ongoing and accelerating. To facilitate that expansion, federal IT service providers must invest resources into becoming experts in IoT operations and maintenance best practices. The federal government’s ability to implement IoT solutions intelligently and securely will be critical in maintaining US geopolitical influence in the coming decade.