Overcoming IoT Deployment Challenges

Datablaze
IoT Deployment
Illustration: © IoT For All

The creation of the Internet of Things was a game-changer for most industries. More recent developments have enabled businesses to increase production, collect in-depth data, and improve processes overall. But the evolution of IoT doesn’t come without drawbacks and challenges. As processes incorporate more IoT devices, the systems become more complex and rely heavily on deploying these devices and networks.

So what are common challenges organizations may face during the deployment and implementation of IoT and the required devices?

5 Challenges Companies Face in IoT Deployment

IoT utilizes many different assets and resources to realize its full potential. This ranges from field devices, data analytics, and even the wired or wireless network devices use to communicate. These components make IoT so powerful, but they can also cause significant issues if one piece of the puzzle is missing or working suboptimally.

Ensuring these components work together and operate effectively is key to running a successful IoT project. Here are some of the biggest challenges companies face while implementing IoT systems.

Power Management

One of the key aspects of an IoT system is the devices it employs. Networks can employ a wide variety of wired and wireless IoT devices, which generally require power to operate. While wired devices are fairly straightforward, they are limited to the hardline connecting them to the network and supplying power. Wireless, battery-operated devices are a much more flexible choice. Unfortunately, they also come with their own set of challenges that include power requirements and network connectivity.

LPWAN is an excellent solution for IoT systems that require small amounts of data to be transmitted from devices spanning large distances. LPWAN uses wireless devices to transmit small packets of data periodically. These devices can be programmed to send data at pre-programmed intervals or based on external triggers. This allows devices to remain in a dormant state and preserve battery life for years if needed.

Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT)

Narrowband is a type of LPWAN, a long-range solution that supports longer battery life and remote uses for IoT devices. The network coexists with mobile networks like LTE and supports similar security and privacy capabilities. Users can expect data rates to peak at around 225kbs.

Cat-M1

While Narrowband provides good solutions for applications that require minimal data transmission, Cat-M1 focuses on providing a robust long-range solution that can handle bigger data requirements and additional device complexity. It utilizes the 1.4MHz bandwidth to provide speeds of up to 1Mbps for uses that require greater data rates.

Connectivity Solutions

The entire basis of an IoT system is the interconnected devices that can feed information to and from devices. Without this connection, the entire system becomes useless. Maintaining a solid connection to IoT devices is a challenge any deployment will have. Fortunately, several solutions can apply to a variety of circumstances.

Finding the best connectivity solution will be highly dependent on the application and budget. Hardwired devices can often provide some of the most reliable results. However, it can be quite costly and inefficient to run cables to every device. Wireless networks come in all sorts of bands and speeds, and their costs can vary widely depending on the requirements.

Settling on a good balance between cost and performance is key to operating an effective IoT system. But it’s important to understand that if the connectivity solution is too minimal, the value of an IoT system can be severely limited.

Sourcing for Software Development and Integration

IoT management systems can provide extensive capabilities and functionality, but there really isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. That means that companies usually need to work with developers and integrators to design and implement a solution custom-tailored to meet their needs. Sourcing a reliable and high-quality firm can be quite difficult in a space crowded with self-declared “experts.”

Locating a reputable service provider will make sure the project is done efficiently and effectively and establishes a partnership that will ensure the IoT system runs proficiently down the line. That way, companies can maximize their ROI and ensure they are getting the most from their system.

Sourcing IoT devices

Another challenge organizations can face how and where to source the IoT devices from. Since the devices are an integral part of the system, it’s essential to procure high-quality devices that suit the situation. With so many different options and manufacturers to choose from, it can be difficult to understand which systems work together and communicate effectively.

Using a reliable and trusted full IoT solution company can ensure companies end up with the right equipment and an effective end solution. Using a reliable source is one of the best ways to prevent any compatibility issues and to catch any system design flaws that may occur. Not only does this ensure the IoT deployment goes smoothly, but it also provides companies with a reliable partner that can support existing and future endeavors.

Implementing a Successful IoT System

While the design and implementation of an IoT system can be incredibly complex, organizations across the globe have recognized it as an incredible tool that can offer a great ROI if done correctly. Unfortunately, deploying an effective IoT system can be difficult without a reliable partner to provide support and direction throughout the project. That’s why it is important to research and find an IoT service provider that will help plan, implement, deploy and support your project from beginning to end.

With the help of experts, organizations can rest assured knowing that deployment of the IoT solution will go over smoothly, and any problems that may arise will be handled efficiently. It also ensures that the most effective solutions are employed while remaining cost-effective without compromising quality or reliability.

Author
Datablaze
Datablaze
Datablaze provides IoT connectivity and fully managed IoT service solutions including custom GPS tracking for fleet and asset management.
Datablaze provides IoT connectivity and fully managed IoT service solutions including custom GPS tracking for fleet and asset management.