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IoT lacking that je ne sais quoi? Try the IoTSP

When a networked toaster just isn't enough

You know how it is - you've hooked up a networked drone-sensing doorbell, Java-enabled remote control toaster and Bluetooth toothbrush, and can now determine the degree of browning of your morning slice via smartphone app from the other side of the kitchen, while commanding Smartbrush™ to order extra teeth-whitening paste for automated UAV delivery once your teeth fall below a predetermined level of brightness, but you're still missing that certain interconnected je ne sais quoi.

Well, for when the IoT just doesn't measure up, try pushing the envelope and the acronym with the Internet of Things, Services and People (IoTSP) - a paradigm-redefining concept from "global leader in power and automation technologies" ABB.

This remarkable extension of the Internet of Stuff's reach would have slipped under our radar were it not for the reader who alerted us to ABB's involvement in helping "three vessels safely carry out construction and maintenance tasks up to 5 kilometers under water".

Specifically, the ships "will be equipped with ABB's OCTOPUS software that uses sensors and the Internet of Things, Services and People (IoTSP) to interpret weather conditions, allowing the crew to make informed decisions during sensitive operations".

There's more on IoTSP tentacle OCTOPUS here (PDF). ABB explains the IoTSP here, or if you prefer, here's a video for your viewing pleasure:

You'll doubtless be relieved to learn that in this brave new world, "people will remain the decision makers, and will program and control all production processes and activities performed by things".

Strictly speaking, then, humans are not yet an integrated component of the IoTSP, at least until OCTOPUS decides it's better at making "informed decisions during sensitive operations" and assimilates it fleshy crewmates. ®

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