Entrepreneurs Embrace New Technology

Photo Courtesy: Maui Economic Development Board

About 40 of Maui’s small business owners convened at the Maui TechOhana earlier this month to learn how to fine tune their operations with the “Internet of Things.”

The IoT is a system of computing devices and machines that can transfer a data over a network without human-to-human or human-to-computer communication.

“I found out there were many applications where IoT sensors can be used in industry to maximize efficiency,” Maui Economic Development Board representative Gerry Smith said in a press release.

“Sound, vibration, and heat sensors can work to reduce down time and increase productivity. IoT doesn’t just mean I can open my garage door or adjust my thermostat with my phone.”

Robert Schmid, Chief IoT Technologist with Deloitte Consulting, discussed with the diverse crowd how IoT may improve their businesses.

Schmid recently moved to Maui and has more than 20 years of experience transforming Global Fortune 100 and start‐up companies to new 21st century technologies.

He shared a number of case studies in which connecting data in real-time made a big difference.

“The greatest opportunity for Maui is in agriculture with ‘Smart Ag’ – looking at ways to increase efficiencies by planning optimal times for planting, saving water, fertilizing and more,” Schmid said.

Many of the attendees were intrigued by the applications for agriculture in Maui.

“There are so many things that the Internet of Things can be applied to. It’s in its infancy right now and there are many markets it can be applied to.  It was very interesting to hear about applying to Agriculture – especially saving water,” said attendee Robert Robinson, who has worked in software development for 30 years.

The next TechOhana meeting will be held in February.