What are Smart Things?

The enabling technologies driving innovation

What are Smart Things?

The enabling technologies driving innovation

Smart Things refers to everyday physical objects, devices, infrastructure, or assets that are embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity, enabling them to collect and exchange data with other systems and users. These can range from smart meters and streetlights to industrial machinery, vehicles, or home appliances.

The core idea behind Smart Things is that they go beyond a passive function. They observe their environment, process information in real time, and can respond autonomously or provide actionable insights. For example, a smart energy monitor doesn’t just display usage; it can detect patterns, predict demand, and even trigger automation to reduce costs or carbon emissions.

In industry, they can support predictive maintenance and real-time logistics. And in the public sector, they drive data-led service improvements across transport, health, waste, and safety.

Crucially, Smart Things act as the frontline data generators within the Internet of Things ecosystem. They feed information into larger platforms, where data is analysed, visualised, and used to inform better decisions. Their value lies not just in the hardware, but in the intelligence and insight they unlock.

Combined enterprise value of the Smart Things cluster has risen 3.7x since 2020

Compared to the ecosystem as a whole, Smart Things companies are seeing a steady rise in valuations.

The cluster is really starting to take shape. International markets look at Glasgow as a rich source of innovation.

Paul Wilson, CEO - STAC

Sub-sector investment vs innovation landscape

Concentrated investment in key sub-sectors is helping to build momentum in Glasgow's Smart Things cluster.

Meanwhile, the breadth of emerging technologies highlights a strong pipeline of untapped potential.

Smart Things Innovation Infrastructure

Explore a number of accelerators, incubators and research centres providing support to the smart things cluster.

Smart Things employees have risen 8x since 2018

Glasgow's Smart Things companies are seeing sustained employee growth, outpacing the tech ecosystem as a whole.

Introduction

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STAC

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