I was reading an article about technology recently and I was introduced to the term the "internet of things". I hadn't heard of this term before, and I was interested in its meaning. According to
Wikipedia, the internet of things refers to the recent trend towards embedding identifiable computing devices within the infrastructure of the internet. The growing number of so-called "smart" products are just one example of this movement. Although, it could refer to something much larger like a smart power grid that uses streamlined information from suppliers and consumers to adjust and improve electricity output. It is the possibility of automating nearly every aspect of our lives through technology and the internet. According to a
recent article from entrepreneur.com not all consumers would be okay with having their lives completely automated in their households. The article shows a list of some potential "smart products" and their uses and gives their desirability from a survey of consumers.
What are some ideas for automated "smart" products that you think would be convenient?
What potential benefits could a future interconnected world provide for businesses?
What potential negative outcomes could come from the "internet of things"?
I think the big obvious negative is a future like the movie smart house where all the automation goes haywire and you get stuck living in a house that is dysfunctional.
ReplyDeleteWhat are some ideas for automated "smart" products that you think would be convenient?
ReplyDeleteAlthough this is already an existing automated "smart" product, the keyless trunk opening on cars. I can't remember exactly what make and model it exists on, but lets say your hands are full and you need to open the back trunk or hatch. All you have to do is wave your foot underneath the back bumper and the sensor triggers the release of the trunk/hatch.
I believe products or technologies that stress convenience will be a huge characteristic in the coming age.
Another huge attribute to smart technologies is the ability to speak a command and have the action performed. For instance, I can command my Xbox One to switch to ESPN without having to change the input or channel. Another example would be Apple's Siri and Google Now. They both offer actions that are conducted through user commands. Although some of these technologies are fairly new and mediocre, they will slowly begin to change the way in which we live over the next several decades.
What potential benefits could a future interconnected world provide for businesses?
Businesses would be able to receive business without having to actively go and search for the target market. The customer would be able to search, find, and analyze any and all company info very easily.
Just-in-time (JIT) would become a norm rather than a specialty.
What potential negative outcomes could come from the "internet of things"?
Potential negative outcomes would be the encroachment on people's personal lives. Some may feel that business has become way too powerful and intruding in their everyday life. Another possible bad outcome would be that negative impressions could spread and be heard quickly. If a customer had a bad experience, the Internet allows for that person to rant and express their feelings.
I think the reliance on the SMART technology is the potential that technology is still a product and has the opportunity to no function properly leaving someone helpless if you are completely reliant on it. I think there are GREAT products and helpful tools as Jacob said that can save time and be a great addition. But I think if we become completely reliant on technology we are just asking for it to fail and then where would be?
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