Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of the Connected Enterprise Market
The Connected Enterprise Market is experiencing an unprecedented degree of competition, as a result of the speed of technological developments, the evolving regulatory environment and the consumers’ demand for greater efficiency and transparency. Competition is now being fought over by a wide range of players, including original equipment manufacturers, IT system integrators, network operators and innovative start-ups that are developing solutions based on machine learning, automation and the Internet of Things. These solutions are not only enhancing operational efficiency, they are also redefining the way that customers are being engaged, enabling companies to gain greater market share. Biometrics and green initiatives are also reshaping the competition, as organisations seek to differentiate themselves by highlighting the security and sustainability of their offerings. Regionally, growth opportunities are emerging, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America, where strategic deployments are set to accelerate, requiring senior managers to rethink their strategies and investment priorities.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer complete solutions which integrate the various facets of the enterprise, enabling a smooth data and information flow.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Accenture |
Strong consulting and integration capabilities |
Digital transformation services |
Global |
| IBM Corporation |
Robust AI and analytics solutions |
Cloud and AI technologies |
Global |
| Microsoft Corporation |
Leading cloud platform with Azure |
Cloud services and IoT |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on a particular technology or solution that enhances the capabilities of the connected enterprise, and they are often the first to market with a particular technology.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| PTC Inc. |
Expertise in IoT and AR solutions |
IoT and augmented reality |
Global |
| Rockwell Automation, Inc. |
Industry-leading automation solutions |
Industrial automation and control |
Global |
| HARMAN International Industries Ltd. |
Strong focus on connected car technologies |
Automotive and IoT solutions |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These suppliers of essential equipment and services maintain the communication systems of the companies.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Cisco Systems, Inc. |
Leader in networking and security solutions |
Networking and cybersecurity |
Global |
| General Electric Company |
Strong industrial IoT capabilities |
Industrial IoT and analytics |
Global |
| Verizon Communications, Inc. |
Extensive telecommunications infrastructure |
Connectivity and IoT services |
North America |
| Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. |
Expertise in engineering and consulting |
Engineering and project management |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- C3S (USA): Specializes in the use of artificial intelligence to optimize supply chains, and recently signed a contract with a major retailer to manage inventory. It competes with the established SAP with its agile and inexpensive solutions.
- IoTify (India): a company that offers IoT solutions for smart manufacturing. It has recently implemented a project for a local automobile manufacturer to improve production efficiency. It complements the larger companies like Siemens by offering specialized solutions for SMEs.
- Keenovo (Germany): This company offers a platform for smart buildings, and has just won a contract from a municipality to control its street lighting. Its goal is to challenge established players such as Honeywell by focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency.
- Provides cloud-based solutions for the agriculture industry, has recently launched a pilot project to monitor the progress of local farmers, and complements the larger agricultural technology companies by focusing on local needs and cost.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the adoption of connected enterprise solutions will increase, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, driven by the need for digital transformation in manufacturing and agriculture. The specialization of technology is shifting to the integration of the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and cost-effective solutions, allowing new players to compete against established vendors.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- The two companies have formed a partnership for combining their respective cloud services, with the aim of enhancing the enterprise connectivity and collaboration tools of the two companies, and thus strengthening their position in the cloud market.
- Earlier this year, the company acquired Mendix, a low-code application development platform, to boost its digital enterprise portfolio and increase its market share in automation.
- Honeywell and SAP have teamed up to develop integrated solutions for smart buildings. The focus of the collaboration is on energy efficiency and sustainable development, which will put both companies in a good position in the growing market for smart buildings.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
Gemalto, SITA |
In the major airports of the world, Gemalto has already installed biometric self-boarding solutions, which facilitate the flow of passengers and reduce waiting times. SITA’s Smart Path solution has been adopted by several carriers, proving its effectiveness in easing boarding procedures. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
IBM, Siemens |
Predictive maintenance based on IBM's AI, "Watson", is used in the "connected factory" to increase the efficiency of the production line. The process of production is monitored and optimized in real time. |
| Border Control |
Thales, NEC |
Thales, in Europe, has installed the most advanced border control systems, with the addition of biometric identification to increase security. NEC’s facial recognition system has been successfully installed in several international airports. It increases both the speed and accuracy of the screening process. |
| Sustainability |
Schneider Electric, Honeywell |
Schneider Electric is concentrating on energy-management solutions to help companies reduce their carbon footprint. Honeywell’s focus on smart buildings and energy-efficiency technology is demonstrated by its projects in cities. |
| Passenger Experience |
Amadeus, Travelport |
Through its data-driven solutions, Amadeus enhances the travel experience. Travelport’s new distribution platforms have improved the engagement and satisfaction of users, as shown by its recent airline agreements. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Connected Enterprise Landscape
In 2023 the Connected Enterprise market will be characterized by strong competition and significant fragmentation. Both traditional and new players will compete for market share. In North America and Europe the digital transformation will be the dominant trend, while Asia-Pacific will be a major adopter of new solutions. The vendors will have to strategically position themselves to gain a competitive edge by focusing on their strengths in the areas of AI, automation, sustainable development and flexibility. The established players will focus on integrating the new technology into their existing frameworks, while the new entrants will disrupt the market with agile, cloud-based solutions. The decision-makers have to invest in these key capabilities to be successful and maintain their leadership position in the Connected Enterprise market.
