The Internet of Things (IoT) in Project Management

Transformations, opportunities, and challenges

COMMENTARY

By Antonio Bassi

Lugano, Switzerland

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the most disruptive technologies of the past decade, deeply transforming multiple sectors, including project management. This technology enables real-time connectivity between physical devices and digital systems, offering new ways to monitor, control, and optimize projects. This article examines how IoT is influencing project management, focusing on its ability to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resource allocation, and reduce risks through real-time data usage. Additionally, it explores challenges related to cybersecurity and data management, offering practical solutions based on recent research and significant case studies. The article concludes by outlining future perspectives and strategic opportunities, emphasizing IoT’s role as a lever for sustainable and resilient project management.

Introduction: IoT and the new paradigm of Project Management

IoT is defined as a network of physical devices, software, sensors, and connections that enable real-time data exchange. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC, 2023), the number of connected IoT devices will exceed 75 billion by 2025, generating over 79 zettabytes of annual data. This proliferation of interconnected devices is redefining traditional project management practices, shifting from linear approaches to data-driven and responsive models.

In project management, IoT introduces the capability to continuously monitor resources, materials, and environmental conditions, making management more adaptive and proactive. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning platforms, data collected from IoT devices can be analyzed to identify patterns, predict risks, and optimize operational efficiency. This approach marks a significant departure from traditional methods based on periodic updates and reactive interventions.

The impact of IoT on Project Management

Continuous monitoring is one of the most significant aspects of IoT applied to project management. IoT sensors collect real-time data on a wide range of parameters, such as resource locations, environmental conditions, and equipment status. For example, in the construction sector, sensors installed on heavy machinery monitor vibrations, energy consumption, and wear, enabling timely interventions to prevent failures. According to a Statista study (2022), IoT adoption on construction sites has reduced downtime by 20% and improved safety by 25%.

In the logistics sector, IoT sensors track the location, temperature, and humidity of goods during transport. This approach has resulted in a 30% reduction in goods damage and a 20% improvement in delivery times (World Economic Forum, 2020). These examples demonstrate how IoT transforms operational control into a proactive strategy, generating tangible benefits in terms of productivity and efficiency.

The ability of IoT to generate real-time data radically changes decision-making processes. By integrating data collected with AI and machine learning tools, project managers can gain detailed insights to make faster and more informed decisions. In infrastructure projects, for instance, IoT sensors monitoring ground vibrations or weather conditions provide crucial information for planning construction activities and improving site safety.

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How to cite this work: Bassi, A. (2025).  The Internet of Things (IoT) in Project Management: transformations, opportunities, and challenges, commentary, PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue I, January. Available online at https://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/pmwj148-Jan2025-Bassi-Internet-of-things-in-project-management.pdf

About the Author

Antonio Bassi

Lugano, Switzerland

Antonio Bassi Is an Electronic Engineer by training, certified Project Management Professional (PMP), member of the Steering Committee of the Project Management Institute – Northern-Italy Chapter (PMI-NIC) from 2004 to 2008, Lecturer in Project Management in academic settings, President of the Project Management Association (APM-Ticino), author of numerous books and articles on project management, former member of the UNI team for the definition of ISO21500 standards for Project Management, with 20 years of experience as Project/Program Manager on innovative projects across various market sectors. He can be contacted at antonio.bassi@supsi.ch