Big data directory released for IoT innovation
An Internet of Things (IoT) big data directory has been launched by the GSMA, designed to make harmonised data from multiple sources available to developers.
The IoT Big Data API Directory directory, which is the first of its kind, is designed to encourage a common approach to data sharing that will help the IoT to realise its full potential.
“The IoT generates a huge amount of data that is currently retained in vertical silos. However, in order for the IoT to reach its full potential this data needs to be released and made available to developers and third parties,” said Alex Sinclair, chief technology officer, GSMA.
“A common, collaborative and interoperable approach to big data will remove the commercial and technical barriers to capitalising on the IoT opportunity and usher in a new era of IoT solutions that will help the market to scale.”
The directory provides details of IoT and context data sets covering machines, devices, automotive, roads, environment, smart home and agriculture. All of the data sets are harmonised and can be viewed on github. A common approach to data sharing lowers costs and creates opportunities for IoT developers, data brokers and data providers.
The GSMA has also released a document called the ‘IoT Big Data Framework’ to define how mobile operators can approach the delivery of IoT big data services. It is designed to enable industry participants to work together collaboratively to deliver big data services and support an ecosystem of third-party application developers. Mobile operators are seen as key participants in the delivery of an IoT big data ecosystem, although much of the IoT data that is collected will come from a range of data provider partners.
The document provides a framework for the delivery of IoT big data services that recognises the many different approaches towards the services that are offered. The proposed architecture offers a degree of flexibility that allows IoT big data services to be offered in multiple ways.
The GSMA will showcase the work it is doing on IoT big data at the Innovation City at Mobile World Congress 2017 in Barcelona.
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