This archive report was first published on 2 October 2019.
October 2, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the adoption of smart technologies, as businesses across the globe began to harness the power of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) to create new networks of products and services.
However, analysts warn that for companies to truly reap the benefits of IoT, they must combine it with other technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
According to Microsoft Enterprise Business senior Account Executive Kellington Kituku, IoT refers to anything that can collect and transmit data, while AI trains computers to perform tasks that were previously the domain of humans.
"IoT and AI are all about enabling smart machines to simulate intelligent behavior, allowing users to make well-informed decisions with minimal human intervention," Kituku explained.
Microsoft provides platforms for users to build various IoT solutions, enabling them to make predictions with high accuracy and reducing guesswork in business.
"For any business to grow, they need to start leveraging this treasure trove of data to make predictions about their performance," Kituku said.
Professional coaches are also leveraging technology and AI to support growth and influence change. Magdalena Mook, executive director at the International Coach Federation (ICF), notes that improvements in technology have made it possible to replace the initial stages of coaching with AI.
Already, coaches are using technology like Zoom and Skype to communicate with clients. In farming, IoT and AI technologies can be used to help farmers achieve better yields by monitoring soil moisture content and acidity levels.
"The value to the farmer is that they will not overspend on fertilizer and will use the correct ingredients based on moisture content, resulting in better yields," Kituku said.
