M2M, Machine-to-Machine Communication gains importance
The fast growing M2M Machine-to-Machine communication in various branches of industry, such as industrial production, transportation or state-of-the art security technology is not only gaining importance, but evokes the need of cross sector standardisation
These are the major findings of a report “M2M – from hyper trend to business model” by eco, the association of the internet community in Germany. 61 % of the responding IT experts voiced the opinion that unifying and cross sector standards will decide on the further inroads of M2M, and further 30 % are convinced that such standards are of importance. Seven percent of the respondents voice a slight relevance for these M2M standards, and only two percent see no significance for the further development of such technologies.
An overall standard for all sectors is needed to synchronise process with various machines. Only a few sectors dispose of a homogenous machinery park, thus the majority will depend on a single standard, not only in the industrial production area, but as well in agriculture.
At the same time adapted business models have to be developed to make use of the decisive competitive advantages M2M is offering. 29 % of the respondents feel that the M2M technology has been well researched, but that the corresponding business models are missing. 66 % recognise that functional models do exist in most of the enterprises, but these have to be optimised. Only five percent do not see room for improvement. M2M trends are offering positive financial prospects for many companies. 48 % of the experts expect considerable cost savings and an enhancement of efficiency through M2M solutions. 47 % estimate at least an improvement, whereas only five percent see no savings potential.
Dr. Bettina Horster, Head Mobile of the German eco association (over 700 member companies, representing the largest organisation of its kind in Europe) is convinced that M2M will have a distinct impact on Germany’s economy and business community, particularly on SME’s. Enterprises that do not bet on the right solutions and business models will lose an important competitive edge. In order to secure that Germany remains long term competitive it becomes imperative that the companies are betting on a standards, disregarding the fact that competitors might receive too much specific information on a competitor. In the framework of a newly launched cooperation with M2M Alliance, eco will push the creation of joint standards in Germany and help to change thoughts of politicians and business.
Eco has influenced the internet development since 1995 and is enhancing new technologies, infrastructure and markets, it formulates framework and represents the interest of its members in politics and international circles. Eco disposes of competence groups where the major experts and decision makers of the internet industry are represented to push future internet themes.
TextileFuture is convinced that similar patent situations do exist in many other countries and in the textile and textile machinery environment and this is why we decided to publish these findings.