Smarter Products

I read an IBM/Rational Software white paper today - Turning product development into competitive advantage. Best practices for developing smarter products - that really focused my thoughts about the future of technology and the new and exciting ways we can take advantage of technology.

I work in Information Technology because I'm passionate about harnessing the power of technology to improve our lives and make us more effective. The paper's definition of "smarter products" is all about harnessing that power:

As you exit your driveway, your car sends a signal to your home to arm the alarm system while your cell phone automatically synchronizes with your car’s voice command system. Having analyzed your recent driving patterns, the vehicle’s global positioning system (GPS) recommends a new route to cut fuel costs and avoid traffic delays. Finally, the car informs you that your antilock brakes need servicing and, after checking the schedule on your personal digital assistant (PDA), presents you with available appointment times.