What does an internet of things specialist do?

An Internet of Things (IoT) specialist designs, implements, and manages IoT solutions, connecting physical devices and sensors to the internet to enable data exchange and automation. They develop protocols, integrate hardware and software components, and ensure security in IoT ecosystems. Specialists may work on diverse applications, such as smart homes, industrial automation, healthcare, and agriculture, optimizing processes and enhancing efficiency by leveraging connected devices and data analytics.

Their tasks include designing system architecture, integrating hardware and software, selecting and deploying sensors, managing data, implementing security measures, ensuring scalability, connecting with cloud services, designing user interfaces, ensuring regulatory compliance, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and handling maintenance and troubleshooting. The role requires expertise in areas such as hardware and software integration, networking, security, and data analysis.

A brief highlights of roles and responsibilities: ? design networking systems ? implement the right software and test it ? IT operation management ? Optimization ? leverage cloud applications ? connectivity ? troubleshooting ? knowledge transfer

As IoT comprises of entire IT system, to operate it thoroughly one has to have a good knowledge/understanding of networking (hardware) and software subjects. It is not possible to learn all the things, however, IoT will have different domains of operations and engineers jack of all trades and master of one.

With opportunities comes challenges, however in the case of IoT opportunities outweigh challenges. Opportunities: ? AI and Machine Learning ? Networking ? Software-defined networks ? Safety/control systems ? Medicine/Pharmaceuticals ? Heavy Industries.... In short, all industries will require IoT specialists in the future. Challenges: ? Gaining good knowledge ? extensive work on new functionality ? increased time in the learning curve ? trial and error method application ? successful product development ?

IoT was there even before it became a buzzword. Many of the industrial solutions were maneuvering towards IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things). This can be thought of as a mini project to demonstrate the working of IoT. A lot of challenges have been faced bringing up and integrating multiple solutions. Case studies can be formed from different industries and set as modules for study in graduate courses. IoT domain experts can build a community to share their stories.