One of the most difficult challenges faced by businesses in asset-intensive industries is how to control and scale the half billion and growing "smart" devices that make up the Internet of Things (IoT)? As much as 80 percent of IoT data in any organization is unstructured. And, let's be honest, "smart" devices really aren't that smart yet. As part of its giant rollout of AI solutions pre-trained for specific industries and professions, IBM Services is launching a new Connected Manufacturing offering that includes a method and approach to help clients accelerate their IoT transformation–from strategy, implementation, and security to managed services and ongoing operations. This combined capability, IBM said, will help its clients connect all of their manufacturing equipment, sensors, and systems to enable business improvement across OEE, quality, lead times and productivity.