The Internet of Things (IoT) enables physical devices — or “things” — to connect and share data with other devices on a large network. These items can be anything from appliances to smartwatches and even self-driving cars. However, as this technology grows and develops, IoT is going far beyond smart devices for personal use. The capabilities of IoT are being applied to entire cities.
Some IoT trends that are gaining traction in cities include surveillance cameras to detect criminal activity; sensor-enabled devices that detect smoke from fires; connected public transport and traffic monitoring; and air pollution/air quality monitoring devices. IoT-enabled devices also help public administration officials more efficiently communicate with each other and city residents.
For example, in the event of a Silver Alert, local public administrators, using IoT-enabled devices, can send out mass communications about the last known whereabouts of a missing person. This IoT-enabled communication may involve cellphones, signage, and electronic billboards. This technology is making cities safer and more efficient and streamlines the methods of communication.
Anyone seeking to embark on a career as a public administrator must have a solid grounding in current IoT trends and technologies, including the staggering potential of the IoT in government. Degree programs, such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), can help candidates understand how the IoT applies to public administration and prepare them to contribute in this area.
What Is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things (IoT) is what keeps a network of physical objects connected. The “things” terminology refers to any device that can pick up an internet signal and use it to communicate with other devices. Some of the most common examples of IoT devices include:
- Smartphones
- Smartwatches
- Smart homes
- Smart vehicles and transportation
- Devices that use sensors (e.g., street lights, thermostats)
- Voice-controlled devices (e.g., Amazon Alexa)
- Security equipment and doorbell cameras (e.g., Ring)
- Wearable health monitors
- Smart appliances
- Autonomous equipment
- Logistical tracking equipment
There are more than 7 billion IoT-connected devices in existence today, according to technology company Oracle, and the number is projected to keep growing as companies, cities, and private users continue to adopt this technology in their homes, businesses, and overall public framework.
Internet of Things Examples
Although the IoT can be harnessed to improve practically anything, two applications in the public sector are particularly meaningful. The following are two Internet of Things examples that are already being used in most major cities.
IoT in Public Transportation
IoT sensors have the potential to improve transportation in countless ways. In terms of public transportation, smart devices can track buses and trains to let people know how long their wait is expected to be. They can provide data on peak usage times, helping officials plan services more effectively. Card-swiping devices can facilitate payment, making the public transportation process faster and more efficient for all involved.
Traffic management, too, can be greatly enhanced through the use of the IoT. Sensors can enable real-time traffic and road use data. This data could trigger automatic adjustments of traffic lights to improve traffic flow, depending on the time of day and the conditions. It could also display automatic messages on electronic bulletin boards to alert drivers about accidents, backups, and other hazards.
IoT in Public Safety and Security
Ensuring public safety and security is a major function of government, and the IoT can be enormously helpful in this area. Speed of response is one way that smart devices can help. Using data from the IoT, fire trucks and police vehicles can be automatically routed to avoid traffic congestion and other slowdowns. Vehicles can also be equipped with smart devices that alert intersections of the vehicle’s approach, triggering traffic lights to turn green and making the trip faster and safer.
Enhancing police work is another way that smart devices can contribute to public safety. Devices currently exist that can detect the sound of a gunshot, pinpoint its location within 10 feet, and alert police dispatch services. Smart guns can report data such as when they are drawn from their holster and when they are fired. Remote drones can detect crimes in progress. Body sensors can monitor officers’ vital signs, precise location, and other key data.
Police body cameras can transmit and record footage of what an officer is seeing. This type of information not only helps at the moment but provides feedback that can help police agencies better plan future responses and can be used as evidence during courtroom proceedings. IoT devices in law enforcement have decreased reliance on witness testimony since they serve as proof of the events that transpired.
Additionally, the IoT can enhance public safety by monitoring the integrity and efficiency of public utilities. Another Internet of Things example is smoke detectors, which can alert fire departments automatically if a fire breaks out in a monitored area. Moisture sensors can report leaks in underground water pipes. Other sensors can report gas leaks and electrical issues. By alerting the proper agencies before these issues become serious, smart devices can play an important role in public safety.
IoT in Government and the Public Sector
There are a number of other potential uses of the IoT in government and the public sector.
- Medical: Technology connected to the IoT can enable people to send emergency medical alerts with the push of a button; monitor the health of high-risk patients with conditions such as diabetes and deliver needed medications automatically; alert patients with electronic medical devices when battery changes are needed.
- Tourism: Push notifications can be sent to cellphones based on a person’s location, communicating information such as the location of a certain museum or historic attraction.
- Environment: IoT-enabled devices can monitor air and water pollution levels and trigger automatic warnings when necessary.
- Administration: “Magic wristbands” containing ID information to facilitate employee access and functionality.
These ideas are just a few possible applications of a technology that seems to have no bounds. For the imaginative public administrator who is willing to embrace innovative practices, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to implementing and reaping the benefits of the Internet of Things and IoT trends.
Prepare for the Future of Public Administration
Ohio University’s online MPA degree program is dedicated to preparing professionals for a career in public administration. Through the university’s prestigious Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs, students gain an overview of the scope of public administration and service while building skills in policy, finance, leadership, business, management, and communications. Students also learn how to use the IoT in government and the public sector and gain an understanding of which IoT trends stand to help their city run more effectively.
The program, which is 100% online, offers four concentrations: Public Leadership and Management, Non-Profit Management, State and Local Government Management, and Crisis and Emergency Management. Discover how the online MPA at Ohio University can help you develop the skills to become a leader in the public sector.
Recommended Reading
Capacity Building in the Nonprofit Sector
Using Innovative Practices for Change in Local Government
What Does a Public Administrator Do?
Sources:
Bee Smart City, What is IoT and Why is it Important for Smart Cities?
DVG, How the Internet of Things Will Transform the Public Sector
Intel, Emerging Public Safety Technology Leveraging IoT
Perle, How IoT Is Helping Improve Public Transportation
Telnyx, Introduction to IoT Devices and Products
Verizon, What Is IoT for Public Safety?