IoT World Alliance helps firms go global

Organization breaks down barriers to international deployments of Internet of Things technology

Harnessing the Internet of Things’ (IoT) potential for innovation may look daunting to organizations just starting out, especially to those with locations in multiple countries. However, it doesn’t have to be – thanks to an organization that helps manage this very issue.

The IoT World Alliance (IWA) helps businesses take care of the sometimes difficult and intricate aspects of deploying wireless, connected things and people on a global scale.

A brief history of the IWA

Formerly known as the M2M World Alliance, the IWA was formed in 2012 and included six founding members – a group including Rogers, which remains the IWA’s sole Canadian member – committed to bringing “technology to market that would simplify the process of global M2M deployments.”

The IWA now includes over 60 international telecommunications providers, working together to support multinational organizations gain the greatest business advantages from global IoT connectivity.

“Spending on digital transformation initiatives is rapidly growing and part of that spend is going to support [multinational] operations,” said Ignacio Paz, General Manger, IoT for Rogers. “This is driving the need of ubiquitous and reliable connectivity, and the IoT World Alliance is enabling this.”

How the IWA works

How does the IWA make adopting and running a globally connected business more than possible, but in fact a smoothly executed and smart business decision? It does this with:

One subscriber identity module (SIM) card. A SIM is a portable memory chip used in IoT infrastructures to identify and store a device’s number, and to connect it to a central database. Embedded SIM cards (eSIMs) are designed specifically to allow for global information exchange without changing the physical SIM itself. They work on all IWA member networks.

Adherence to Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) specifications. The GSMA maintains a single, seamless network to define and uphold global standards for wireless communication.

Centralized control. With Cisco Systems’ Jasper Control Center as its backbone, the IWA helps customers smoothly manage large numbers of connections worldwide.

Giesecke & Devrient s AirOn platform. This system provides the security and reliability needed to help global organizations ramp up and deploy IoT solutions quickly.

A growing network of value

The IWA embodies a unique combination of powerful technologies coupled with solid global infrastructure, to provide businesses like yours with real value, such as:

Reduced costs. eSims combined with roaming agreements among IWA members means global organizations pay the local, rather than pricy international, roaming rates everywhere they operate.

Full lifecycle management. The IWA’s worldwide presence and partnerships make it possible for its members to manage their customers’ IoT solutions at every stage, from initiation and subscription management to replacement or deactivation.

Simplicity and convenience. Multinational businesses work with only one IWA member, have only one contract and receive only one invoice.

Compliance. Your IWA member contact does the work to keep your organization compliant with both local and international telecommunications regulations.