Introduction

Rob Tiffany is a technologist, CTO, board member, blogger, entrepreneur and thought leader in the IoT market. Our conversation covered his origins in the 1990s building connected systems for vending machine business using technologies considered primitive by today’s standards. We follow the progression of the industry through the evolution of powerful enabling technologies while fundamental principles forged during his early experience inform the success of his work at larger companies including Microsoft and Hitachi. A key message to the industry is the need to focus on the basics like connecting machines for visibility and operational efficiencies – the more advanced technologies like AI and Blockchain are interesting, but there’s important value that’s being overlooked today – and real business needs to be met.