In simple terms, the Internet of Things (IoT) covers all devices, ranging from basic sensors to smartphones and wearables, that are connected to the internet and which can ‘talk’ to each other. IoT allows devices to communicate not only within closed silos but across different networks, so creating a more connected IT environment.

Of course, IoT is a central facet of the digitisation of manufacturing, often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) or the ‘digitally-networked society’. Businesses that are slow to embrace digitisation will be placed at a competitive disadvantage with shrinking returns and declining productivity.

IoT represents a major advancement on conventional SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, which are a common feature of factory floors. SCADA systems do not ‘talk’ to other systems such as sales, inventory, logistics and production. The implementation of IoT software facilitates this wider use of the data collected through wider inter-connection. For example, using IoT could enable a production line, linked to sales, inventory and delivery to automatically reconfigure to produce small batches, when required.

Part of the Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, being held at the SEC Glasgow on the 15^th - 16^th October 2025, the IoT & Industry 4.0 Expo, will attempt to demystify and whole area of IoT and highlight its increasing use in industrial applications, to significantly improve efficiency, save both time and money while also reducing waste and increasing safety at work. The IoT & Industry 4.0 Expo will show how Scottish businesses of all sizes can improve the way they deliver products and services on a daily basis as well as identifying opportunities for growth.