How the Maritime Industry is Embracing the Internet-of-Things

Connected devices at home, work and in our vehicles are increasingly common nowadays, with the internet-of-things (IOT) technology continuing to disrupt many industries successfully and provide previously impossible benefits – which I will look at in this article. To give some context to that disruption, Business Insider released a recent report that suggests ‘there will be more than 41 billion IOT devices by 2027’ – that is an increase of about 39 billion devices worldwide from 2019.

Credit: Ashley Davies - Digital Consultant

Ok, that is interesting but what exactly is IOT and how does it work?

IOT is terminology that encompasses objects connected to the internet, and how those objects then communicate with each other. The combination of those objects connecting to the internet and automated systems means that it is possible to collect data, analyse and therefore make informed decisions or actions because of it. In terms of benefits for a consumer, a good example might be a fitness wearable connected to a cloud based system – think of Strava as an example. It is able to report useful data, in a consumable format via an app. That provides an opportunity to set goals, track personal fitness progress and share content to encourage others in their network.

With COVID-19 and many of us being in lockdown, some industries are making great use of IOT. Healthcare for example, where they are using IOT for these type of things:

• Symptom-tracking apps (with wearables and location data)
• Remote monitoring of key environments for vaccine storage and transportation
• Connected equipment in hospitals, sending alerts, monitoring equipment or managing performance.

How is it important to commercial and recreational boating industry?

As mentioned recreational and commercial boaters can use IOT devices in order to monitor their vessels remotely and to enhance aspects of safety and security. It allows them to receive alerts in real-time if something unusual occurs.

What is next for the Maritime Industry and IOT?

We are heading into an era where connected boats, with technology way beyond simplistic monitoring will become somewhat of a norm. Boat builders are already integrating many connected systems into new boats that will allow boaters to control boat systems from a touch of a button while on board – that could be everything from entertainment systems to key functions of the boat. With the ability to manage some of those systems, and to receive notifications, while away from their boats.

In commercial shipping, we will see more IOT and other data-driven technologies, such as blockchain, machine learning, robotics and Artificial Intelligence enable better management and tracking of items, optimized operations, better engagement with customers and maintenance of equipment, to name a few. The key is to understand what these technologies can enable (separately and together) and to understand why that would be useful, whether that’s for peace of mind, security and safety, to make better informed decisions or to integrate with other industries, such as Insurance.