Anna Forrester
A new IDC Government Insights report states that the Internet of Things will help state and local governments leverage data to keep pace with technology advancements in cloud, social networks, mobile and data analytics.
The “IDC PlanScape: The Essentials of Internet of Things Investment for Smart Cities” report provides guidance in justifying IoT investments as government leaders work toward establishing smart cities, IDC said Monday.
“The Internet of Things is an emerging reality, and U.S. cities and states cannot avoid the ramifications of new IP-enabled and connected devices and their potential impact on the delivery of government services and on the quality of life of citizens,” said Ruthbea Yesner Clarke, director of IDC’s smart cities strategies program.
The report noted that education and awareness on IoT’s practical applications, use cases and returns on investment are the biggest challenges to state and local governments wanting to invest in IoT.
According to IDC, government leaders should educate investment decision-makers on IoT to facilitate their support, build the business case using success stories and performance data from other cities, establish partnerships with industry and academia and target discrete point solutions for pilot investments.
