Top 8 Industrial IoT Trends Transforming Manufacturing in 2020

Gartner forecasts approximately 20 billion IoT devices connected globally by the end of 2020. The rapid proliferation of these devices is reshaping manufacturing, offering new ways to monitor processes, predict failures, and optimize performance.

Below, we highlight the eight most influential Industrial IoT trends for 2020, followed by practical guidance on how to accelerate your own IIoT initiatives.

Tip: explore the IIoT trends for 2021 to stay ahead.

Industrial IoT Trends Shaping Manufacturing in 2020 and Beyond

Beyond buzzwords like digital twin, 5G, AR/VR, and blockchain, the following eight trends are set to dominate the manufacturing landscape:

1. Expanded IoT Adoption – More production lines are integrating sensors and connectivity to unlock real‑time visibility.
2. Software‑as‑a‑Service (SaaS) Adoption – Cloud‑based platforms are becoming the default for data management, analytics, and control.
3. Edge Computing Over Cloud – Processing data closer to the source reduces latency and bandwidth demands.
4. Prioritized IoT & Router Security – With cyber‑threats rising, security budgets are growing and new protocols are being implemented.
5. Predictive Maintenance Powered by IoT – Continuous data streams enable accurate maintenance scheduling and downtime reduction.
6. Big Data & AI Explosion – The volume of machine data will increase exponentially, requiring advanced analytics and AI to extract value.
7. Customisable Machine Experiences – Tailored dashboards and mobile interfaces improve operator efficiency and customer satisfaction.
8. Cybersecurity Talent Gap – The shortage of qualified security professionals will intensify, driving demand for managed solutions.

Sources: Forrester, Analytics Insight, Finances Online, Towards Data Science.

With these trends in mind, we’ve compiled 10 actionable steps to jump‑start your Industrial IoT project.

Accelerate Your Digital Roadmap with SaaS Platforms

SaaS delivers software over the Internet, allowing any device with a browser to access applications, data, and analytics. Manufacturers benefit from:

1. Lower capital and operational costs.
2. Rapid deployment and time‑to‑value.
3. Scalable integration with third‑party services.
4. Continuous updates without onsite maintenance.
5. Easy proof‑of‑concept trials.

A SaaS solution gives you instant, secure access to all connected equipment. The key is to establish a secure link between your machinery and the chosen platform.

Power Your SaaS Platform with Edge Technology

Edge devices preprocess data locally, reducing the amount transmitted to the cloud while preserving essential insights. This seamless integration speeds up deployment and ensures that critical information reaches the SaaS platform without delay.

Once your equipment is on the platform, you can start capturing data. Edge gateways also help filter out noise, delivering only high‑value metrics to the cloud.

Start with Key Data Points from Your Machines

Don’t overwhelm your first data collection effort. Focus on essential metrics such as:

• Production count
• Machine state changes
• Sensor errors or malfunctions
• Emergency button status
• Idle time duration
• Oven temperature
• Energy consumption (%)

These data can be defined as PLC variables and transmitted via the edge device to your SaaS platform. Once collected, the next step is to turn raw data into actionable insights.

Leverage Machine Data for Predictive Maintenance and AI

Historical and real‑time data are the foundation of predictive maintenance, machine learning, and AI initiatives. By analyzing past failures, you can identify patterns that signal upcoming maintenance needs, thereby preventing unexpected downtime.

Begin with a proof‑of‑concept: analyze existing data to find recurring indicators that preceded maintenance events. Then implement alerts that trigger preventive actions before a fault occurs.

Deliver a Customisable Machine Experience

Every machine operates in a unique context. Offering a configurable dashboard and a mobile app enhances usability for operators and supports remote monitoring for service teams.

Imagine a smartphone app that displays real‑time production metrics, allows remote control of the machine’s touch panel, and facilitates instant communication between on‑site operators and your support department.

Address IoT Security Concerns Proactively

Cyber‑crime data continues to surge, making security a top priority for IoT deployments. The scarcity of seasoned security professionals adds complexity to safeguarding industrial platforms.

Partnering with a dedicated IoT security provider mitigates risk. Such partners bring deep expertise, 24/7 monitoring, and proactive defense against evolving threats.

Tip: Learn how IXON delivers a secure and trustworthy IIoT solution by downloading our security whitepaper.

Quick‑Start Your IIoT Project: A 20‑Page White Paper

Our white paper offers concrete steps and real‑world case studies for implementing IIoT in machine manufacturing.