The Internet of Everything

The Internet of Things involves connecting all kinds of objects to the internet such that the can yield and receive data. This would include cars, motorboats, televisions, coffee makers, roads, - you name it.

The Internet of Everything (IoE) extends this to include the connectivity and systems that enable those things to be integrated, monitored and managed. So says Cisco, the purveyor of connectivity and proponent of the Internet of Everything.

The IoE has a lot of potential. For example, consider interconnecting all the infrastructure of a city, including the water, sewer, power, roads, parking spots, bridges, garbage cans, dumpsters, - everything. Then think about the efficiencies that could be achieved by having real time data from those things to analyze so that resources can be directed to them when needed - and only when needed. Garbage can be collected only when the containers are full to a certain level, sewers pumped clear in areas where they start to back up, emergency crews given the best route to their destination on a moments notice. People could find the best parking spot when they need it. (And the cars will be able to drive themselves there and park themselves).

The Internet of Everything will revolutionize the way we live in cities. Some of it is already here, but the IoE extends the degree of connectivity and the ability to manage the components such that they become integrated into our daily lives. We will see IoE strategies being adopted by cities over the next few years. It's already started, given the example of Barcelona, Spain which has begun implementation with interesting results. Others are sure to follow. For more on Cisco's vision, check out this report.