It’s been a little over a week since CommsConnect Perth wrapped up for another year. The event was held on 15 March gathering together professionals from the local communications industry to hear of the latest trends and solutions from the swag of sessions and workshops over the one day event.
Overwhelmingly, and perhaps not surprisingly, the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) were the hot topics of the day with several speakers presenting on different topics from their unique viewpoint and experiences. A highlight for me was a highly informative presentation from an end-user’s perspective from CITIC Pacific Mining’s General Manager – Information Services, Ray Achemedei. This was a rare treat on the approach to and application of wireless technology on an operational mine site and provided a valuable insight into the importance of data when making business decisions and the versatility of a private LTE Network.
As part of Titan ICT’s contribution to the event, our Practice Manager of Technology Risk, Mourad Khalil, presented on the increasing trend in IT/OT network convergence and the implications that has on cybersecurity in both realms. Mourad explained that cybersecurity is as much about people, process and technology as is a company’s financial sustainability and the health and safety of its employees, and must be ingrained into the fabric of business. Flick Mourad an email, he’ll be happy to share his presentation slide deck.
Another heavy focus was on the role of communications in emergency services and critical communications. We heard how satellite is helping extend the reach and coverage of emergency services communications to improve safety for first responders and improve effectiveness. As well, we learned that the death of paging as a critical communications medium has been grossly exaggerated.
The President of the Australian Radio Communications Industry Association (ARCIA), Hamish Duff, provided an update of its initiatives from lobbying Government to ensure the effective framing of the upcoming radio communications legislation to having draconian and regressive licensing fees removed.
As is customary, the Conference was followed by the ARCIA Industry Gala Dinner held on the rooftop of the Aloft Hotel with magnificent views to the Perth city skyline and Swan River. It was a great evening of networking between industry stalwarts and newbies alike. The presentation from Myriota was fascinating, and again, showed how IoT is growing and creating incredible business opportunities.
CommsConnect Perth is a terrific opportunity for the local industry to come together and thanks must go to Paul Davis and his team at WF Events for making it happen yet again.