IIoT Platform or IIoT Solution?

One important decision that must be made when companies want to implement an Industrial Internet of Things project is how the technology should be packaged.  This stems from the fact that gaining value from an IIoT project demands more than just 'connected' devices.  It also depends on communications networks, security, an IT platform, analytics, and application or workflow software.   Everything has to come together in order to effect a transformation of a set of business processes.  A company can choose to (1.) assemble, deploy, and maintain all the parts and pieces, or (2.) use a 'platform' that packages together many of the needed tools and technologies as a starting point, or (3.) use a 'solution' that is prebuilt, requires certain sensors or live data as inputs, and delivers a predetermined output or set of behaviors. 

When the goal is to learn more about the potential of the Industrial Internet of Things, assembling all the parts and pieces is a great option.  But for real projects, the choice usually comes down to options 2 and 3.  How to decide?   Think about the long term.  If you think that any project will be the first of many, and the platform technology seems mature and robust enough, then the platform approach may be for you.  If on the other hand you want to make a significant improvement in one area, right now - then consider the solution approach.  In some cases, it's possible to find a solution built upon a platform - which could help answer both short and long term needs.