2.4.5 Timely and relevant information
The billions of M2M, M2P, and P2P connections make possible the 'everything' in the IoE. The process pillar leverages the connections between data, things, and people to deliver the right information, to the right thing or person, at the right time. It is these billions of connections that add value.
A drop of water is a great metaphor for the IoE. A single drop by itself is not that significant. Yet, when combined with millions or even billions of other drops, it can change the face of our planet. Like a single drop of water, a single person, bit of data, or thing connected with billions of other people, data, and things can shape the face of our planet.
To convert our metaphor into a 'real-world' IoE example, consider how one tiny drop of water can begin a chain reaction that causes a big result. Monitoring systems send alerts of a sudden thundershower. Sensors talk to networks. Networks talk to traffic grids. Traffic grids talk to energy systems. All these work in concert to protect people and preserve their quality of life.
A drop of water
Environmental sensors detect an upcoming rain, and relay that information to the organisational network managing that area. Everyone involved in that network within the impacted timeframe is informed of the unexpected weather shift, and schedules are adjusted automatically.
A construction company's connected network shifts labour schedules and material deliveries to continue production within safe areas. soccer practices are cancelled and business meetings in outdoor venues are rescheduled indoors
Transportation systems work in congruence to resolve traffic risks due to rain. Road sensors detect the change and initiate dispersion of water-resistant solutions to the roads to mitigate road slickness. The lighting network updates to turn on appropriate lights for increased visibility.
Traffic grids work together to optimise traffic flow that accounts for adjusted driving patterns based on behaviour trends.
Agricultural systems connected to a weather monitoring system receive information about a weather pattern change. The agricultural system makes real-time adjustments to the water system to optimise irrigation and keep proper soil moisture levels, while minimising the risk of crop destruction due to overwatering.
Sensors on a fruit tree's branches detect the amount of sag and alert a farmer to projected yield.
The internet of everything will enhance our lives tremendously, as even one unassuming element will have sweeping implications for business, social interactions, and well-being in general. Amazing things will happen, and amazing experiences will be created.