I²M²—The Future of Industrial Internet Monetization
Figure 3: Parameters of I²M²
software. But the efficient pay-for-use
model requires a standardized process for all
components and the ability to run
automatically, as illustrated as Auto Connect
in Figure 1.
spectrum, as there are many more
monetization methods possible than this
one example of payment for usage.
To describe such methods, the Industrial
Internet Monetization Model (I²M²) was
created. Figure 3 illustrates all of the
parameters of this model which are
explained in detail in the next sections.
Such a standard must be open and universal.
There should be no patents or other
intellectual property involved. Everyone can
participate and operate as shown in Figure 1.
However, the industry will only accept a
standard if the latter is shown to be flexible
enough to fulfill the business and technical
requirements of future systems for all of the
participants — on the operational and
builders side.
Business Models
For any specific Monetization Method, it is
important to know which business models
can be used: On the one hand, there are
“general purpose” Monetization Methods
which should be adaptable to as many
business models as possible. On the other
hand, there are “specialized” Methods
which are intended to support very specific
business methods. The selection process
across business models starts with a
challenge: Which business models actually
exists? Luckily there is research available;
one very useful list of business models is the
St. Gallen Business Model Navigator
A U NIVERSAL M ONETIZATION
M ODEL
Wibu-Systems discussed this idea of an open
usage payment standard last year with other
companies involved with the Industrial
Internet Consortium (IIC). The idea was well
received, but the group quickly viewed the
monetization aspect in a much broader
- 8 -
March 2018