The Potential of Collaborative Sensors

This IDC Perspective discusses how collaborative sensor networks - groups of sensors that work together to share data and coordinate actions - are becoming core to digital transformation strategies and new business models. They provide dynamic, real-time awareness, enabling organizations in a variety of sectors to make smarter decisions and be more resilient.Unlike individual sensors, which are static, operate largely in isolation, and send data individually to a central processing point, collaborative sensors are part of a network that shares data and coordinates actions. This creates a more collective sensing system with greater capabilities. Together, all the sensors in a collaborative sensor network fuse aggregate data, which then creates a clearer picture of whatever needs to be monitored.Collaborative sensor networks - which often take advantage of advanced technologies including AI, advanced communications protocols, and data fusion - work by coordinating actions and sharing data in real time. This creates higher-quality insights that can surpass those of individual sensors.Yet collaborative sensors are still maturing and are considered an emerging technology. They are likely to mature greatly in the next several years, creating more potential use cases. At the same time, there are kinks to be worked out in terms of integration, governance, and scaling."Sensors have become more accurate and ubiquitous, edge AI and AI-enabled processing have matured, and connectivity options are reliable," says Karen D. Schwartz, adjunct research advisor, IDC's IT Executive Programs (IEP). "These advances have created a real pathway for organizations to start realistically considering collaborative sensor networks for a variety of real-time, situational awareness needs."