Category: Book

Types of Analytics

Today, we’ll discuss types of analytics and their importance in turning raw data into actionable insights.

This diagram shows four types of analytics, ranked by their difficulty level and the value they provide. Let’s go through them step by step.

Based on the eBook — IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas

1. Descriptive Analytics: What Happened?

At the base of the analytics hierarchy is descriptive analytics. This is the simplest form of analytics and helps us understand what happened by interpreting historical data.

  • Purpose: To summarise past events and identify patterns.
  • Example: A smart thermostat that shows last week’s energy usage patterns.
  • Methods: Charts, graphs, and dashboards that clearly show past performance.

This type of analytics is great for reviewing the past, but it doesn’t tell us why something happened or what will happen next.

2. Diagnostic Analytics: Why Did It Happen?

Moving up, we have diagnostic analytics, which looks at why something happened. It’s more complex than descriptive analytics because it requires diving deeper into the data.

  • Purpose: To discover relationships and identify the causes behind past events.
  • Example: Analysing why a specific day’s energy usage was higher than average by correlating data with external factors like weather.
  • Methods: Data discovery, drill-down techniques, and correlation analysis.

This stage helps us make sense of the past by understanding the root causes of trends and anomalies.

3. Predictive Analytics: What Will Happen?

Next is predictive analytics, which focuses on forecasting future outcomes. This is where analytics becomes proactive rather than reactive.

  • Purpose: To predict what might happen based on current and historical data.
  • Example: A smart thermostat forecasting energy usage for the upcoming week based on weather patterns and past behaviour.
  • Methods: Statistical modelling and simulations.

By identifying trends and patterns, predictive analytics helps us make informed predictions.

4. Prescriptive Analytics: How Can We Make It Happen?

At the top is prescriptive analytics, the most advanced type. This involves predicting outcomes and recommending actions to achieve desired results.

  • Purpose: To decide the best course of action based on predictions.
  • Example: A smart thermostat automatically adjusting settings to save energy while maintaining comfort.
  • Methods: Machine learning and AI to analyse probabilities and make decisions.

Prescriptive analytics provides the highest value by enabling automated and data-driven decisions.

IoT and Analytics

This diagram also highlights how analytics works in an IoT platform:

  1. Sensors: Collect data from various sources like temperature, humidity, or movement.
  2. IoT Platform: Acts as a central hub to process and store the data.
  3. Analytics Engine: Applies these four types of analytics to generate insights and drive decisions.

Final Thoughts

Each type of analytics builds on the previous one, moving from simple data interpretation to actionable decisions. The value increases as we move up the hierarchy, as does the complexity.

Question to consider: Which type of analytics is most valuable in your industry, and how can you implement it effectively? Let’s discuss it!

[Note: Download IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas ]

“Mastering IoT with Favoriot” – My Third eBook Within One Month

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d become an author of multiple eBooks, let alone publish three in just a month. My latest journey in writing has been nothing short of a whirlwind, and I’m here to tell you how I managed it — and how you can follow suit.

Let me pull back the curtain on my writing process. It’s surprisingly straightforward and something you can replicate. My strategy was simple: I curated the best articles from my blog and transformed them into eBooks. No magic, just a bit of hard work and smart repurposing of content I already had.

The first eBook I launched was “My Startup Survival,” a personal narrative about my foray into entrepreneurship. The cover was a simple Canva creation, but it conveyed the essence of my startup journey. This book was a labor of love, a reflection on the trials and triumphs of building something from the ground up.

The second was “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide,” initially titled “IoT Frontier.” It took me two years to overcome my procrastination and finally get it out there. This eBook was a deep dive into the Internet of Things, written to demystify the field for newcomers.

But the third, “Mastering IoT with Favoriot: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses and Educational Institutions,” is the one I’m most proud of. I decided to offer it for free, a gesture to share knowledge and empower others.

This book isn’t just a guide; it’s an expedition into the world of IoT platforms. It starts with the basics, explaining why on-premise IoT platforms are critical for deployments. Then, it compares various IoT platforms to help decision-makers choose the right one for their needs.

The heart of the book is the in-depth exploration of the Favoriot IoT Platform. I break down its plans, capabilities, and how businesses and developers can leverage it for their IoT projects. But I don’t stop there. The book also offers practical guidance on crafting IoT solutions, reducing development time, and tailoring platforms to specific verticals.

I delve into the role of IoT in education, arguing for its integration into university curriculums to prepare future developers. Case studies sprinkle the book, bringing the theories to life with real-world applications.

By the end, I hope to leave readers with a clear understanding of IoT’s transformative power across various sectors, championed by platforms like Favoriot.

So, if you’re a business leader, an IoT developer, or an educator, “Mastering IoT with Favoriot” is penned for you. It’s a blend of theoretical insights and actionable advice, all aimed at harnessing the potential of IoT.

And there you have it, the story of how I published three eBooks in a month. If I’ve sparked a curiosity in you about IoT or writing, I invite you to read my guide. It’s more than just a book; it’s a blueprint for innovation in the IoT landscape.

I Changed My Book Title Twice – Here’s Why It Happened

Why I Changed the Title of My eBook: From “IoT Adventure” to “IoT Frontier” and Finally to “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide”?

A Reflection on the Power of SEO and Keywords in Book Titles

When I first launched my eBook on the intriguing world of the Internet of Things (IoT), I titled it “IoT Adventure.”

It seemed fitting at the time, a title that conveyed the excitement and exploration in the burgeoning field of IoT.

However, not long after, I made a decision to rename it to “IoT Frontier.” The shift was subtle yet significant, representing a more pioneering spirit. But then, a crucial realization dawned on me: the power of SEO and the right keywords in a book title.

In the digital age, where eBooks compete in a vast ocean of online content, the right title can be the difference between being discovered or remaining invisible.

This understanding led me to reevaluate my choice. “IoT Adventure” was catchy, and “IoT Frontier” had a ring of innovation, but did they encapsulate the essence of the book in a way that would resonate with potential readers searching online?

It was then that I decided to change the title again, this time to “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide.”

This title wasn’t just a label; it was a strategic choice.

The term “Beginner’s Guide” is widely searched by novices in any field, and incorporating it into the title immediately made the book more discoverable to my target audience.

It was a lesson in SEO – Search Engine Optimization – and the importance of keywords.

Choosing “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” wasn’t just about tapping into popular search keywords.

It was a deliberate move to align the book’s title with what it truly offers – a comprehensive, accessible introduction to IoT for beginners.

This title clearly defines the book’s target audience and content, making it more likely to reach those seeking a starting point in their IoT journey.

In retrospect, the evolution of my book’s title reflects a deeper understanding of the digital marketplace.

While “IoT Adventure” and “IoT Frontier” were titles I was emotionally attached to, “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” was a decision driven by pragmatism and a clear vision of my audience’s needs.

This journey in renaming my eBook taught me a vital lesson about digital content strategy.

It’s not just about what you write; it’s also about how you present it to the world.

The right title acts as a beacon, guiding the right readers to your work. It’s a blend of art and science, creativity and analytics.

To other authors and content creators, my advice is this: consider not only what your title says about your content but also how it will perform in the vast, competitive world of online search.

Your title is more than a name; it’s your first, and perhaps most crucial, marketing tool.

[eBook] IoT Frontier: Insights and Innovations in Malaysia and Beyond by Mazlan Abbas

Why You Should Read This eBook

“IoT Frontier: Insights and Innovations in Malaysia and Beyond” serves as a seminal exploration of the interplay between technology and daily life, placing special emphasis on the Internet of Things (IoT) — a cornerstone of contemporary innovation reshaping global industries, urban landscapes, and day-to-day living.

Entering the year 2024, the book captures the essence of an ongoing digital renaissance, primarily propelled by IoT advancements. It offers an in-depth look at these developments, particularly highlighting Malaysia’s role in the narrative, which acts as a crucial case study for IoT’s influence in emerging economies.

In the first section, “IoT Foundations and Future Visions,” the book establishes a baseline understanding of IoT’s present status and its expansive future potential. It delves into the skills necessary for capitalizing on IoT and scrutinizes its integral role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Furthermore, it addresses the burgeoning ethical considerations in AI, pivotal as we progress towards increasingly intelligent solutions.

The second section provides a comprehensive analysis of Malaysia’s IoT sector, enriched with case studies and broader trend insights. It showcases how IoT solutions have been effectively applied in real-world scenarios, such as managing the Ammonia Gas Leak at the PJ Ice Factory, thereby illustrating IoT’s practical utility.

The third section focuses on the intricacies of IoT platforms, with a particular lens on Favoriot, a leading name in the IoT industry. This part is crafted to aid enthusiasts, developers, and enterprises in making informed choices about IoT platform selection and use.

Sections IV and V take the reader through IoT’s transformative effects in specific fields such as industry, agriculture, and city planning, highlighting the revolution brought about by IoT in these sectors through groundbreaking solutions and smart technologies.

The book then expands its scope in Sections VI to VIII, exploring IoT’s applications in consumer and health markets, confronting the challenges in IoT deployment, and emphasizing the importance of IoT education and training. These chapters underline the versatility of IoT applications and the hurdles encountered in their implementation.

In Sections IX and X, the book delves into the synergy between IoT and AI and offers strategic business insights within the IoT sphere, providing a foresight into a future shaped by these interwoven technologies.

The penultimate section presents exclusive interviews with industry leaders, offering rare insights, while the final section takes a global perspective, examining worldwide IoT initiatives and their implications.

“IoT Frontier: Insights and Innovations in Malaysia and Beyond” is not merely a book; it is an extensive expedition through the IoT landscape. It aims to provide a holistic understanding of IoT’s potential, challenges, and future direction, catering to students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and IoT aficionados alike.

You can download the preview/sample ebook – HERE.

Startup Survival: The Journey of a Tech Entrepreneur (Book)

Preface

In this book, I invite you on a journey—a journey that began with a single step into the unknown realm of Silicon Valley and expanded into a voyage across the vast ocean of the Internet of Things (IoT). It is a tale not just of technology and innovation, but of personal growth, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a vision.

Part 1: The Awakening unveils the transition from a techie to an entrepreneur. It chronicles the birth of our first IoT product designed to enhance the lives of senior citizens and delves into the struggles and successes of monetizing cutting-edge technology. This section is a candid exposition of the thrills and tribulations that accompany the early stages of a Startup’s life.

Part 2: The Evolution details the maturation of our venture, Favorsense, amidst the fiercely competitive market. It is a story of navigating through the turbulent waters of the IoT industry, marked by early missteps and eventual milestones, and the philosophical underpinnings that propelled our venture forward.

Part 3: Expansion and Growth reflects on the scaling of our enterprise with limited resources. Here, I share our exploration of diverse sectors—academia, industry, and government—and the invaluable insights they offered. This part also touches on the creative lulls and the investment of faith and funds into our dream.

Part 4: Navigating Success chronicles the strategic moves towards acquisition and the harmonious blend of academic rigour with entrepreneurial zeal. It is a testament to the hard-earned lessons in building products and the joys of witnessing a startup blossom.

Part 5: The Mastery is where the nuances of team dynamics are explored, revealing how my fourth IoT product was a pivotal turning point. It stresses the importance of adaptability and the critical role of product-market fit in the survival and success of a startup.

Part 6: Perseverance and Innovation is a homage to the grit required to overcome the myriad challenges a Startup faces. It uncovers the stories behind product failures and the resilience needed to navigate a global crisis while fine-tuning the pricing of our products.

Part 7: Personal Growth and Strategy delves into the self-discovery journey every entrepreneur undergoes. It discusses the individuality of the entrepreneurial experience, the quest for recognition, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect investor pitch.

Part 8: Branding and Marketing highlights the lessons learned in branding and marketing with a lean budget. It shares insights into the personal branding intertwined with the company’s image and the real-world lessons gleaned from business dealings.

Part 9: Reflection and Insights offers a retrospective look at why some entrepreneurs reach the pinnacle of success while others falter. It brings forward the collective wisdom gained from both the startup community and the giants of the industry.

Part 10: Building Foundations closes the narrative by emphasizing the importance of community support, the strategic use of mailing lists, brand building on a shoestring budget, and the diversification of revenue streams.

This book is more than a compilation of entrepreneurial lessons; it is a mosaic of experiences, a beacon for aspiring innovators, and a testament to the power of a shared dream. It is dedicated to the team at Favoriot, whose dedication and innovation have not just shaped a company, but also the very future of IoT. Welcome to our story.

Get the book – HERE!

You can download the preview/sample book – HERE.

The Entrepreneur’s Balancing Act: A Deep Dive into the Complexities of Startup Product Pricing

1. Introduction

Embarking on a startup journey is both exhilarating and challenging. Among the multitude of tasks that startup founders grapple with, understanding how to price their products stands as one of the most complex and crucial. This task turns into a labyrinth especially when there is no direct competitor for benchmarking, or the local market has distinct affordability parameters.

2. The Challenge of a Blank Competitive Landscape

One of the first roadblocks a founder may encounter is the absence of competitors offering similar products. With no direct competition, determining a suitable price can feel like shooting in the dark. Without an industry standard, the pricing strategy often rests on assumptions and estimations, which could risk customer alienation or undervaluation of the product.

3. The Influence of Local Market Affordability

Even with competitors in sight, every market has unique affordability dynamics. A pricing strategy successful in one market may fail miserably in another due to diverse purchasing power and economic conditions. Thus, a deep understanding of local market conditions and economic dynamics is critical in the pricing process.

4. Branding: The Unseen Variable

An established brand carries an inherent value in its name, enabling it to command higher prices. However, for new startups, this is a luxury they don’t possess. With the brand yet unknown, startups face the arduous task of proving their worth while also strategically pricing their products to draw customers in.

5. The Journey to Find the Right Price

Learning and adapting based on customer feedback is essential. If a product is priced too high and fails to attract customers, founders might need to implement discounts or bundled solutions. Conversely, if it’s priced too low, founders risk undervaluing their offering and could strategically raise the price over time. This highlights the need for a flexible, customer-centric approach in determining the product price.

6. Value-based Pricing: The Key to Success

Rather than solely focusing on cost and margin, successful pricing strategies often hinge on the value provided to customers. This approach not only leads to better customer satisfaction and loyalty but also helps in aligning the product’s price with its perceived value.

7. Conclusion: The Balancing Act

In the end, determining the right price for a startup’s product is a complex balancing act between profitability and affordability. It’s about understanding the market, strategically positioning the brand, and most importantly, targeting and delivering value to the right customers. This task extends beyond mere profit-making or loss prevention. It plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth and establishing a strong market presence for the brand, ultimately forming the bedrock for the startup’s success.

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IoT eBooks by Mazlan Abbas

Here’re the list of eBooks which I have written.

(1) IoT Notes

Download IoT Notes – HERE

IoT Notes: Learning Outcomes

  1. Comprehensive Understanding of IoT and its Applications: Upon completing the ebook, readers will gain a solid understanding of the Internet of Things (IoT), its components, and applications. This knowledge will extend to the IoT inflection point and the reasons behind its significance in the current technological climate.
  2. Profound Insights into the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Industry 4.0: Readers will develop a strong grasp of the concepts of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Industry 4.0, including their differences and their interconnectedness. They will also gain an understanding of how technology is creating ripples throughout various aspects of society and business.
  3. IoT Business Models and Impact on Businesses: The ebook will equip readers with an understanding of seven IoT business models, their key success factors, challenges, and potential effects on businesses. This knowledge will help them assess and navigate the rapidly changing IoT landscape.
  4. Understanding IoT Protocols, Architectures, and Networks: Readers will gain insights into the differences between MQTT and HTTP protocols, as well as an understanding of IoT architecture, including the 7-layer OSI model and the 7-layer IoT model. The ebook will also cover various network options and provide comparisons between LPWAN solutions.
  5. Proficiency in IoT Tools, Platforms, and Programming Languages: The ebook will help readers understand the advantages of using Arduino in IoT projects, explore popular programming languages within the IoT domain, and learn about IoT platforms, such as the Favoriot IoT Platform. This knowledge will enable them to make informed decisions when selecting tools and platforms for their IoT projects.
  6. Skills in System Integration and IoT Engineering: By the end of the ebook, readers will have a solid understanding of system integration in the context of both the Fourth Industrial Revolution and IoT. They will learn how to implement system integration, and gain insights into the top 10 skills required to become a successful IoT engineer.

(2) Your IoT Journey

Download Your IoT Journey eBook – HERE

Your IoT Journey: Learning Outcomes

  1. Addressing IoT Challenges and Market Segmentation: Readers will gain insights into the main challenges faced by IoT service providers, as well as an understanding of IoT target markets, including consumer (B2C) and enterprise (B2B) segments. This knowledge will help them make informed decisions in their IoT ventures.
  2. IoT Cloud Services and Monetization: The ebook will introduce learners to the concept of “Sensing-as-a-Service” as a new IoT cloud service and guide them on how to monetize IoT data to become commercial sensor service providers. This understanding will enable readers to explore new business opportunities and revenue streams in the IoT domain.
  3. IoT Adoption and Industry Trends: Readers will be equipped with the knowledge of the factors influencing IoT adoption rates, the early adopters of IoT, and the trends and predictions for IoT in Malaysia. This information will help them stay informed about the IoT landscape and make strategic decisions in this rapidly evolving field.
  4. Leveraging IoT for Smart Cities and Citizen Engagement: The ebook will discuss various ways IoT can be applied to smart city development, from flood prevention to building citizen engagement solutions. This understanding will enable readers to explore innovative applications of IoT for improving urban life.
  5. IoT and Job Market Implications: Readers will gain insights into the potential impact of IoT on the job market, including job creation and displacement. This knowledge will help them understand the changing dynamics of the workforce and identify opportunities and challenges in a world increasingly shaped by IoT.
  6. IoT in the Context of Industry 4.0 and National Strategies: The ebook will discuss the connection between IoT, Industry 4.0, and Malaysia’s National IoT Strategic Roadmap. Understanding this context will allow readers to better grasp the broader implications of IoT on national and global scales and its potential to drive future development.

IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas

For the past many years, I have received similar questions again and again. Finally, I decided to write simple notes (hand-drawn and with the help of some multimedia tool) regarding IoT.

This can be used for lecture notes or as a simple way to understand IoT. Initially, I made this a paid version, but finally, I decided to make it free for all.

Here’s the link to download – https://bit.ly/3p0gR5K

Note: Don’t forget to download the second eBook entitled “Your IoT Journey” which is also available for free.

And I am in the process of writing the third eBook called “IoT Adventure”. Soon to be published if I have enough energy or encouragement to complete. Thanks, guys, for the support!

IoT Notes by Mazlan Abbas