As with everything that becomes popular, as the Internet of Things becomes more in demand, more technology providers are beginning to look fondly on the commercialization of IoT solutions.

And while that is good, because it opens up a wider range of providers and possibilities for companies looking to incorporate IoT into their businesses, choosing the right provider in that sea of ​​options is becoming increasingly difficult. Especially for those companies whose core business is not focused on the use of technology.

So what should we look for in an IoT provider company to ensure the success of a new project?

1 – Offer a flexible and customizable product

All IoT projects require customization. The needs of each business are different, even between companies in the same industry, and the product must be able to adapt to those needs.

In fact, the requirements change over time, and the supplier must be able to follow this process in a dynamic way.

A world-class product may seem attractive, but the customization costs are enormous, and usually from the hand of a local integrator who when it comes to the difficult questions will turn around to “consult the supplier” (because no one knows better the product than the designer).

Local support and advice, from a company that also designs its own products, is the perfect combination to achieve a highly customizable solution.

2 – Offering a robust and proven product.

Or, put another way: avoid undercover hobbyists.

With the rise of products like Arduino or Raspberry Pi, many electronics and software hobbyists think that by combining a development board inside a 3D printed cabinet, a few days of programming and a free display platform, they already have a product of IoT.

And of course they do! If you want to remotely control the lights in your house …

But a company, which needs reliable information 24/7 to make critical business decisions, cannot leave its IoT project in the hands of beginners. The product must be robust and tested.

3 – Offer an open product

There is still a long way to go before there are undisputed standards in the world of IoT, but there are several open technologies and protocols that have become standards that allow interoperability between different providers, products and systems.

Avoid proprietary closed solutions at all costs.

If you continue to work with the same IoT provider, it is because their product and services are excellent, and not because they have left you trapped.