How IoT Is Supporting Critical Infrastructure And Public Services

James Norman, chief information officer of public sector services at Dell EMC, says health professionals are using IoT devices such as wearables to encourage self-care approaches. He believes that the Internet of Things can improve efficiencies and operations in British hospitals.

“IoT is set to revolutionise the healthcare industry providing a new approach to self-care in order to help shrink the current strain on the NHS and help with the UK’s aging population,” he said.

“Wearable devices are able to collect and send patient data to doctors in real-time and sensors will be able to monitor things like whether a hospital bed is free or occupied to help improve hospital efficiencies – creating the view of a hyper-connected patient.”

“This can also impact other industries in helping the UK introduce the concept of smart cities. Through the data collected from sensors and devices, hospitals can start automating processes, linking GPs and other medical practitioners together, along with suppliers and technicians. By having a clear picture of patients and their medical history, more patients can be treated at home through remote monitoring, reducing pressure on hospitals.”

Read More: Where are the UK’s smart cities?

IoT is a golden opportunity

There are many professionals – both in the world of technology and other sectors – who view the Internet of Things as an opportunity for drastic but positive change.

Hubert Da Costa, vice president of EMEA at Cradlepoint, is one of those people. In his eyes, connected technology has the ability to transform all aspects of public services – from law enforcement to education. Benefits include more sustainable processes, as well as improved efficiencies.  

“As IT technologies continue to advance, but budgets for public sector IT departments are shrinking, connected devices present an opportunity to cut costs while improving output. Government departments, local authorities, emergency services, education and law enforcement are leading the way in this by implementing sensors connected with 4G LTE technology,” he said.

“For instance, smart equipment with embedded sensors monitor firefighters’ location, body position, heart and respiratory rates and body temperature. Public sector administrators avoid emergencies, reduce emissions and save money by monitoring the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and dams.  

“In education, connected school buses enable educators to foster in-vehicle learning during field trips and trips to sporting events. By connecting devices to wireless networks, public services have a greater level of control and a more in-depth method of data collection than ever before. This efficiency is rapidly generating a smarter world, and the pace of development is only going to continue.”

IoT is often confined to atypical areas such as the smarthome and connected car, but the benefits are far more wide-ranging. When it comes to supporting critical infrastructure and public services, which form an important part of modern countries and living, connected technology is on top.

Quiz: What do you know about IoT?