IoT Program Boosts Property Tech Options for Aussie Firms

ORBCOMM, a global player in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, has unveiled its SKYWAVE Connect partner programme, aiming to bolster the development and deployment of IoT technologies across various sectors. This move has potential ramifications for the Australian property market, offering enhanced capabilities for remote monitoring, asset management, and data-driven decision-making. The programme, launched initially in select regions with a global rollout planned for later in 2025, could particularly benefit Aussie firms involved in property management, construction, and infrastructure.

What is SKYWAVE Connect?

The SKYWAVE Connect programme is designed to create an ecosystem where IoT solution providers, system integrators, and value-added resellers can access ORBCOMM’s technology, resources, and support. This includes access to IoT devices , multi-mode satellite and cellular connectivity services, development tools, and subscription-based pricing models.

According to ORBCOMM, the programme provides various benefits and services to its partners – marketing support, sales, technical support, 24/7 multilingual multi-location support and professional services for device integration and solution deployment.

Program Structure

The SKYWAVE Connect programme is structured around three tiers:

• Authorized Partner: Provides access to ORBCOMM products and services, subscription-based pricing, technical support and marketing opportunities.
• Ascent Partner: This tier supports Authorized Partners with strong growth potential, providing all Authorized Partner benefits, plus additional strategic investment, technical, sales and marketing support, and early access to new products.
• Authorized Distributor: Grants rights to distribute ORBCOMM devices and connectivity.

Implications for the Australian Property Market

The increasing adoption of IoT technologies is transforming the Australian property landscape. From smart home automation to advanced building management systems, IoT devices enable greater efficiency, cost savings, and improved tenant experiences. ORBCOMM’s SKYWAVE Connect programme potentially offers several key benefits for the Australian property sector:

• Enhanced Remote Monitoring: IoT devices connected through ORBCOMM’s satellite and cellular network can facilitate remote monitoring of properties, particularly in rural or remote areas of Australia. This is crucial for managing large portfolios or infrastructure assets spread across vast distances.
• Improved Asset Management: Real-time tracking and monitoring of equipment and materials on construction sites can optimise logistics, reduce theft, and improve overall project efficiency. This can translate to significant cost savings for developers.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: The data generated by IoT devices can provide valuable insights into building performance, energy consumption, and occupancy patterns. This information can inform decisions related to property upgrades, maintenance schedules, and investment strategies, leading to better environmental outcomes and increased return on investment.
• Boost for Regional Development: Reliable satellite connectivity, a key feature of ORBCOMM’s offering, is particularly advantageous in regional Australia where mobile coverage is often limited. This can unlock opportunities for property development and investment in areas previously constrained by connectivity issues.

Expert Commentary and Considerations

While initiatives like the SKYWAVE Connect programme present exciting possibilities, it’s important to consider the potential challenges and alternative viewpoints within the Australian context.

One potential challenge is the initial investment cost associated with implementing IoT solutions. However, proponents argue that the long-term benefits, such as reduced operational expenses and increased property value, outweigh the upfront costs. Smaller property firms might find the investment harder to justify initially.

Another consideration is data security and privacy. As with any connected technology, robust security measures are essential to protect sensitive data from cyber threats. Government regulation and industry best practise are continuously evolving in this area.

According to Dave Roscoe, ORBCOMM’s President of Satellite IoT, SKYWAVE Connect benefits all parties.

“When our partners succeed, we succeed. SKYWAVE Connect provides them with tools, services and benefits that give them everything they need to build better low-data, high-reliability IoT solutions—faster and more efficiently—for their customers,” said Roscoe. “The launch of this programme is a demonstration of our commitment to our partners and their business growth. We can’t wait to see how they innovate with these enhanced resources at their fingertips.”

Conclusion

The launch of ORBCOMM’s SKYWAVE Connect partner programme represents a notable development in the IoT space, with potential implications for the Australian property market. By providing access to technology, resources, and support, the programme aims to accelerate the adoption of IoT solutions, leading to improved efficiency, sustainability, and profitability for property professionals. However, firms will need to carefully evaluate the costs, benefits, and security considerations before embracing these new technologies.

Source: Based on information from ORBCOMM press release.

This article is based on a report from au.finance.yahoo.com titled “ORBCOMM® launches SKYWAVE™ Connect partner programme to accelerate channel partner growth”. You can find the original article here: https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/orbcomm-launches-skywave-connect-partner-100300187.html