The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market opportunity is huge, and organizations are racing to develop and deploy IIoT solutions they can use to increase revenue, streamline operations and gain valuable insights that increase profitability. According to Accenture, the IIoT could add $14.2 trillion to the global economy by 2030, and 84 percent of business leaders say they are ready to create new service-based business models using the IIoT.
However, the success of any IIoT solution depends on having robust, reliable internet connectivity. Given its unique combination of security, flexibility, coverage and long-life, cellular is the preferred wireless technology for connecting industrial equipment to the cloud. However, adding the shorter-range connectivity offered by Wi-Fi or Bluetooth can increase the solution’s flexibility and functionality in ways that generate significant value. In order to make the best connectivity decision, manufacturers developing IoT solutions should consider the advantages that have made cellular a very popular choice for the IIoT, while also evaluating the benefits of adding Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to their solution as well.