Machine-to-Business (M2B™) is an industrial term primarily used in the heavy equipment industry. It refers to a methodology, defined by ZTR Control Systems, that builds on the traditional form of machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. Machine-to-machine can be defined as technologies that allow both wireless and wired systems to communicate with other devices of the same ability. M2B expands that basic communication into intelligent, two-way communication that can lead to adaptive, real-time changes in both the machine and the organization’s processes.
With M2B, fleet operation is tracked through the use of telematics hardware. Fully customizable, electronic reports provide actionable insight into machine utilization and machine health. These reports can be viewed through existing business systems, a computer browser or a smartphone.
Business System Integration
Within the Telematics Industry, M2B™ gives businesses the option of full system integration. Whether it is a resource planning tool, a third party equipment management software or an enterprise wide business system, the information can be integrated into a main database and delivered through the user’s preferred interface. This makes the information much more accessible, which makes adaptive process changes possible.