Building a successful industrial IoT ecosystem in Asia

As industrial original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) develop IIoT products optimised for Asia, what are some steps can they take to ensure success?

IIoT systems are not standalone appliances deployed on a whim, but advanced and interoperable systems that work within a tightly integrated ecosystem to deliver real-time visibility, insights, and control.

1. Shortlist the appropriate mobile connectivity

Cellular-powered devices are preferred for IIoT deployments due to their flexibility and performance. From low power wide area networks (LPWAN) such as Cat-M1, traditional 3G or 4G mobile connectivity, or next-generation 5G, mobile networks can meet the broad requirements of evolving IoT devices with ease. Depending on objectives, cost and deployment scenarios, industrial OEMs will need to partner with mobile providers for their devices.

2. Develop Asia-centric solution

Developing versatile IoT solutions that can work across Asia is far more manageable than building multiple disparate systems. Apart from paring down costs, this approach also speeds up innovation cycles. OEMs should also develop a comprehensive ecosystem of IoT devices accessed from the same interface.

3. Security and regulatory considerations

Navigating the disparate markets in Asia calls for a deep understanding of local regulatory requirements. This ranges from regulations around the certification and operation of mobile devices to data sovereignty and data protection requirements for IoT devices. OEMs should also familiarise themselves with security certification requirements. For instance, Japan has a Cyber/Physical Security Framework, while Singapore has its IoT Cyber Security Guide¹.

4. Deployment and billing

Deploying industrial IoT solutions across multiple countries in Asia can be more complicated than it first appears. For instance, enterprise customers that deploy IoT solutions may need to contract and pay for them through a local entity. With these customers, the process of managing contracts and billing can be streamlined with a global or regional master service agreement with country-specific addendums to simplify billing. The cost of the project deployment can also be done using the same arrangement.

The fragmented market in Asia puts the onus on industrial OEMs to validate their IIoT solutions for a unified customer experience across different devices and countries. Depending on the markets involved, the work involved might be extensive and can potentially delay project implementation.

Moreover, data privacy regulations also differ broadly, with some countries being stricter than others. Some may not have “know your customer” (KYC) rules in place for embedded SIMs (eSIMs) or might specify a range of activities that require the express consent of the device user.

Partnering with a qualified mobile network operator (MNO) can significantly speed up the deployment process and ensure that potential roadblocks are identified and addressed at the start. Some ways where the right MNO can help include:

Address regulatory hurdles: Get the right advice from the start and avoid being caught by off-guard by differing qualification guidelines and fees.

Overcome varying digital adoption rates: While Asia is predicted to lead 5G adoption globally, the market maturity and capability currently can vary. Plan your regional rollout with this in mind.

Cultural differences and language barriers: Sidestep misunderstandings stemming from cultural and language differences by working with experts versed in mobile deployments in Asia.

Are you developing an IIoT solution for Asia? Learn more about Singtel’s Multi-Domestic Connectivity Solution or speak to us to find out more.

¹ IMDA. Internet of Things (IoT) Cyber Security Guide. 2020.