Device Certification Services: Manage Costs and Time-to-Market for IoT Projects

Deploying IoT solutions is a complex undertaking. In fact, according to the report “Why IoT Projects Fail” from Beecham Research, the two most common reasons why IoT projects fail are complexity/technical challenges and lack of budget/resources.

One such challenge that can inhibit the successful launch of an IoT solution is connected device certifications. Many businesses without IoT experience and expertise find the approval process frustratingly complicated and burdensome, with various requirements coming from carriers, industries, and governments. Device certification services from IoT experts and enablers can help solution providers get their devices certified efficiently and cost-effectively.

What is Device Certification? 

According to a GSMA report on IoT device certification, “testing and certification programs for cellular functionality has long been used as the means to ensure the correct functionality of mobile devices.” With the advent of IoT, the certification of mobile devices extends to scores of everyday devices that historically lacked cellular connectivity, such as water meters, medical devices, vehicles, and appliances. The GSMA report states that connecting such “atypical” devices may bring about additional requirements for specific tests and certifications.

Device certification services bring together the many devices, carrier, test lab, and customer resources to define the needs, expectations, roles, and responsibilities required to initiate and complete certification. Device certification services and management can also be used by companies facing challenges with existing devices and for whom lab testing and troubleshooting coordination are needed for a swift resolution.

Benefits of Device Certification Services

The GSMA report, “IoT Device Certification Landscape,” cites two main reasons for device certification: to ensure devices do not harm either the network or other nearby wireless devices and ensure interoperability. Hence, devices work as intended when connected to the operator’s network.

Beyond the main reasons to certify devices, device certification services offer many benefits to companies deploying IoT solutions. A single-source provider for certification activities simplifies the process of obtaining approvals, and end-to-end project management helps streamline resource allocation by reducing or eliminating customer workforce needs.  

More efficient lab scheduling and streamlined processes help drive down costs associated with necessary approvals and speed time-to-market. The result of avoiding common certification pitfalls and expedited completion is a better ROI for IoT projects.