One Planet, One People, One Grid?

In the tech section of the BBC news online, I found this interesting article by Brendon Riley, the CEO of IBM in the UK. In it, he makes the point that we can now “infuse intelligence into the way the world works.”  He cites a case study from Malta and observes that their energy grid looks more like the internet.

Here’s an excerpt: “Critically, the digital and physical infrastructures of the world are converging. Computational power is being put into things we wouldn’t recognise as computers. It’s easy to embed sensors in all sorts of ecosystems, from hospitals to supply chains to natural systems like rivers. Almost anything can have a digital presence in a networked world.

“All of this instrumentation generates new data, which advanced analytics can turn into insight – so better decisions can be made in real time.

“This in turn leads to increased effectiveness – simply doing what works, faster.”

Writing Prompts:

Financial Services:

• What companies do you or your firm believe will lead the way in this green revolution?  Does IBM have what it takes?
• Do you believe the claims Mr Riley makes about a smarter planet or is this just corporate boosterism?
• What public-private partnership models for the green revolution deserve emulation?
• Do you know of any studies estimating ROI for this type of initiative?

Environmental & Services:

• What other case studies deserve attention?  IBM promotes the Maltese study because they know it best.
• Is there a downside to the approach being taken in Malta?
• Do you know of any studies estimating ROI for this type of initiative?
• Is it possible that less-developed countries have an advantage on, say, the G20 in implementing initiatives like this?