Much ado has been made over the possibilities in both the machine-to-machine (M2M) and intelligent buildings industries. But as mobile technology becomes more pervasive and mobile network operators (MNOs) continue their efforts to globalize and make their networks play well with one another, an intersection of those two technologies is both inevitable and intriguing.

Take, for instance, the Deutsche Telekom AG May 2012 announcement that it launched an M2M marketplace – a global platform for manufacturers and dealers to provide hardware, software, apps and full-package solutions based on M2M technology. Basically, the portal provides a place for enterprises, vendors and other solution providers to create M2M solutions.

Meanwhile, in October, Accenture and Siemens AG announced that they've developed Accenture Smart Grid Services (ASGS), which provides consulting, systems integration and managed services for smart meter and analytics solutions. Through the new venture, utilities will better be able to manage the amounts of data gathered through smart meters, which will help better monitor distribution systems and customer consumption.

The points of intersection for such announcements should not go unnoticed by MNOs or technology vendors, as discussed further in this month's Heavy Reading Insider, "Opportunity Knocks for M2M, Intelligent Buildings Providers." This report examines the intelligent building and M2M markets, analyzing the most lucrative verticals for the markets, and discussing drivers and challenges in the industries. It includes a comparative analysis of solutions available, examines the geographic landscape of the markets and details trends that will likely occur in the industries over the next 18-24 months.

This blurring of the lines between the technologies is important on several fronts. First, it opens both technologies to new innovations and new opportunities for growth and investment. It also enables service providers – including large wireless providers like those featured in this report – to shore up their managed services offerings in several different capacities (AT&T Inc. should be commended for its work in this space, as discussed more in depth in the report).

It also enables both technologies to mature more quickly. No one really questions whether technologies like the smart grid or smart homes are, well, smart. But convincing all the players that the cost of investing in such technologies is worth a lengthened return on investment (ROI) has been difficult. But as intelligent solutions blend more with M2M, the proven ROI from M2M – especially that found in the logistics industry – will shore up those with concerns over its long-term economic sustainability.

Without a doubt, these technologies would be successful on their own. But the reality is that the more that service providers and vendors show how symbiotic they are, the faster that road to success will be paved.

— Denise Culver, Research Analyst, Heavy Reading Insider

The report, Opportunity Knocks for M2M, Intelligent Buildings Providers, a 17-page report, is available as part of an annual subscription (12 monthly issues) to Heavy Reading Insider, priced at $1,595. This report is available for $900. To subscribe, please visit: www.heavyreading.com/insider.