Deploying IoT solutions is a complex undertaking. In fact, according to the report “Why IoT Projects Fail” from Beecham Research, the two most common reasons why IoT projects fail are complexity/technical challenges and lack of budget/resources.
One such challenge that has the potential to inhibit the successful launch of an IoT solution is connected device certifications. With a variety of requirements coming from carriers, industries, and governments, many businesses without IoT experience and expertise find the approval process frustratingly complicated and burdensome. Device certification services from IoT experts and enablers can help solution providers get their devices certified efficiently and cost-effectively.
According to a GSMA report on IoT device certification, “testing and certification programs for cellular functionality has long been used as the means to ensure the correct functionality of mobile devices.” With the advent of IoT, the certification of mobile devices extends to scores of everyday devices that historically lacked cellular connectivity, such as water meters, medical devices, vehicles, and appliances. The GSMA report states that connecting such “atypical” devices may bring about additional requirements for specific tests and certifications.
Device certification services bring together the many device, carrier, test lab, and customer resources to define the needs, expectations, roles, and responsibilities required to initiate and complete certification. Device certification services and management can also be used by companies that are facing challenges with existing devices, and for whom lab testing and troubleshooting coordination is needed for swift resolution.
The GSMA report, “IoT Device Certification Landscape,” cites two main reasons for device certification: to ensure devices do not have an adverse effect on either the network or other nearby wireless devices, and to ensure interoperability so devices work as intended when connected to the operator’s network.
Beyond the main reasons to certify devices, device certification services offer many benefits to companies deploying IoT solutions. A single source provider for certification activities simplifies the process of obtaining approvals, and end-to-end project management helps streamline resource allocation by reducing or eliminating customer workforce needs.
More efficient lab scheduling and streamlined processes help to both drive down costs associated with necessary approvals and speed time-to-market. The result of avoiding common certification pitfalls and expedited completion is a better ROI for IoT projects.
To ensure the successful deployment of IoT initiatives, it’s important to select a partner with a proven track record of bringing devices through a streamlined accreditation process. KORE has direct relationships with over a dozen of the world’s largest carriers, is an active member of the PCS Type Certification Review Board (PTCRB), and has managed hundreds of customer device certifications.
KORE is a trusted advisor and leader in certifications and is proud to have a member of the KORE team elected to the PTCRB as the Working Group Chair. His expertise, skills, and knowledge are paired with his multi-lingual ability to facilitate device certification in non-English speaking labs for a comprehensive global solution.
To learn more about how device certification services make bringing your IoT solution to market seamless and easy, download the data sheet “Certify Your IoT Devices on Their Respective Networks Swiftly and Effortlessly.”
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