The OECD 2016 Ministerial Declaration mandates the OECD to develop metrics to measure the effects of the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions in different policy areas, such as economic growth, employment and education needs.

This report provides new evidence on how the Internet of Things (IoT) – theinter-networking of physical devices and objects whose state can be altered via the Internet – is diffusing in OECD countries. Connected industrial equipment, smart home devices and connected cars are all examples of IoT applications.

This chapter provides an overview of the Internet of Things (IoT), which refers to the interconnection of physical devices via the Internet. It discusses how IoT devices collect and share data to improve various processes, and can be used in several applications and sectors, including agriculture, energy, and healthcare. It also discusses the growth and adoption of IoT devices worldwide, along with associated challenges such as cybersecurity threats. Additionally, the text explores the convergence of IoT with other technologies like big data analytics and artificial intelligence. Finally, it outlines the structure of the book, which includes chapters on measuring IoT diffusion and case studies in the manufacturing and healthcare sectors.

This chapter discusses the definitions of the Internet of Things (IoT) in statistical surveys across countries, compares results on IoT uptake by businesses, households and individuals, and provides guidance for countries wishing to refine or introduce questions on the IoT in their surveys.

This chapter reports on additional metrics and sources to monitor the growth and diffusion of the Internet of Things (IoT): patenting activity in IoT‑related technologies, venture capital, mergers and acquisitions of IoT firms as well market developments in specific segments in the IoT value chain. These metrics help capture innovation opportunities and emerging commercial applications in the IoT field.

This chapter presents the findings from two case studies on adopting the Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing in Brazil and Germany. The studies are intended to complement information from information and communication technology (ICT) usage surveys of the drivers and obstacles to IoT diffusion and the impact of IoT applications. Their findings aim to improve the evidence base for policy making in relation to manufacturing and to gain insights relevant to IoT applications in other domains.

This chapter presents the findings from a case study on Internet of Things (IoT) adoption in healthcare. While data from information and communication technology (ICT) usage surveys provide information on the uptake of IoT health monitoring devices by individuals, limited information is available on the adoption of such devices by hospitals and general practitioners. Information on the effects of their adoption is also scattered. The case study’s findings contribute to filling this information gap, particularly regarding the use of smart devices for remote patient monitoring.