Future installations rely on proving return on investment, IoT expert says. Despite high installation costs, warehouse operators are broadening the deployment of the "Internet of Things" as they find ways to make the networked sensors pay off, an AT&T expert says. The Internet of Things (IoT) is loosely defined as a network of physical objects, sensors, and other information sources that automatically exchange information with a central database. In logistics, IoT users are inspired by the promise of improved visibility across the supply chain, which could allow them to track items such as containers, pallets, and packages, as well as the trucks, forklifts, and conveyors that move them. However, installing an IoT network in a warehouse requires purchasing expensive sensors, building data networks, and hiring consultants with specialized expertise to design and implement the platforms, said Mobeen Khan, AT&T’s assistant vice president for IoT Solutions. "It is still somewhat complex to set up, because you need devices, connectivity, and a network," Khan said in a recent interview. Given the high up-front costs, "it is most important to understand where this data will add value and generate strong ROI," he said. As a telecommunications carrier, AT&T supplies connectivity through cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi channels, as well as consulting services and software-development tools. Once an IoT network is operating, businesses can begin recouping their investments in many ways, according to Khan. For example, a food and beverage company could rescue perishable goods from spoilage, or a manufacturer could charge a premium to retailers by guaranteeing shipment quality, documenting the cargo’s complete chain of custody, he said. Gains could come from improved visibility across the shipping and warehousing functions, he said. Users could also benefit from better visibility into temperature settings, battery charges, fuel levels, security systems, and even data from what […]