Cisco Adds More IoT Specializations for Partners

Cisco Systems (CSCO) has opened three new Internet of Things (IoT)-centric specializations intended to help partners capitalize on what the networking giant pegs as a largely untapped $19 trillion opportunity for the networked connection of physical devices and objects.

The vendor defines the IoT as a subset of the larger Internet of Everything (IoE), which includes connecting people and physical objects, whereas the IoT is confined to the networking of objects and devices. Cisco estimates that some 99 percent of physical objects that could comprise part of the IoE are still unconnected, presenting a huge opportunity for the vendor’s channel partners. Hence, the IoT specializations.

Cisco’s new Advanced Internet of Things specializations include the Safety and Security specialization, the Manufacturing specialization and the Industry Expert specialization.

Channel partners may begin applying for the Safety and Security and Industry Expert specializations now but will have to wait until Nov. 18 to apply for the Manufacturing specialization, Cisco said.

Steve Benvenuto, Cisco Partner Programs senior director, said in a blog post that Cisco reselling partners and operational technology partners both will be able to leverage the tools and training from the new IoT specializations in vertical market settings.

“Through the specializations, partners will improve customer relevancy, help build critical skills, and learn more about Cisco technologies that enable creation of powerful vertical market solutions,” Benvenuto wrote.

He said Cisco plans to offer more IoT specializations in the first half of 2015 aimed at supporting new products and solutions.

As for the specifics of Cisco’s new IoT specializations, with the Safety and Security designation partners can demonstrate to customers their capabilities to build security solutions, including how to create site surveys, which devices to use and when, where each device should be placed, how to design complex systems, handle installation, and customer support. There are four required roles—Account Manager, Systems Engineer, Field Engineer and Cisco Qualified Specialist.

With the Manufacturing specialization, Cisco partners can show their ability to “connect people and equipment with data” for the manufacturing industry. There are three required roles—Account Manager, Systems Engineer and Field Engineer.

And, with the Industry Expert specialization, Cisco partners can combine operational technology experience and Cisco IT networking knowledge. There are three required roles—Industry Expert: Account Manager, Systems Engineer and Field Engineer.