The Internet of Things provides a very large-scale research effort that crosses IBM’s hardware, software and services businesses. Initial areas of focus for this research and test applications include energy and utilities, natural resource management, logistics, and supply chain management.

The requirement for large complex system creation and monitoring ties in with IBM’s traditional competencies. The effort will also involve technology partners, and university research centers.

The lab is working with the Chinese government on several test deployments, with the plan to develop the technology so that it can be utilized in other parts of the world with minimal customization.