IoT technology uses new network protocols, hardware and specialized software, and successful deployments will require expertise in business transformation, data science, cybersecurity and industrial automation.

"CIOs recognize that the IoT holds the promise to enhance customer relationships and help them drive business growth. However, it's a complex undertaking that affects business strategy and nearly every role in the CIO's organization," Forrester writes in a new report.

Security is particularly complex given the two-pronged threat that IoT represents: The volume of IoT devices increases an enterprise's attack surface, and, hackers can exploit IoT device vulnerabilities to launch other attacks. "Security as an afterthought for IoT devices isn't an option," Forrester writes in its report, "Predictions 2017: Security And Skills Will Temper Growth Of IoT."

Networking know-how will also be a challenge, Forrester says, as the array of wireless technologies and protocols required to support IoT field deployments multiplies beyond familiar Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular connections.

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