Automation continues to gradually make its way into the mainstream. For example, commercials depicting homeowners monitoring their home remotely, setting thermostats based on useage and programming lights and music is quite mainstream, showcasing some of the nifty every day uses of machine-to-machine (M2M) technology and IoT gateways.
The applications of building automation, however, go far beyond what you may have seen in advertisements. In fact, automation can be utilized by companies across nearly every vertical. What follows are a few “hidden” automation applications.
Payment Processing
Automated payment systems supported by best-in-class gateways perform a wide range of functions, from facilitating faster credit card transactions to verifying customer membership in loyalty programs. Automated payment system applications also allow remote monitoring of point-of-service systems and terminals for security and performance assurance purposes.
Printing
Print automation can increase employee productivity by allowing managers to create ironclad rules that govern business processes. For instance, a point-of-sale device can be set up to print a receipt any time a sale is entered. Or the printer in a commercial warehouse could be configured to print a packing slip when an order is confirmed in the system, eliminating the need for human intervention and error. Automated solutions can also collect and analyze data on a company’s printing, identifying areas of waste or inefficiency.
Data Processing
Data access and collection devices can enhance a business’s existing infrastructure by re-routing information over the Internet of private IP networks instead of dial-up lines. These devices allow for faster transfer of data and cost savings reaped by eliminating telephone lines. Best-in-class Dial-to-IP converters also come with SSL encryption to secure data and embedded back-up to protect against data loss.
If you were under the impression building automation was only good for monitoring HVAC or lighting systems from afar, perhaps it’s time to take another look. Because no matter what space you occupy, the technology holds some benefits for your business.