Rational Interoperability: A Pragmatic Path toward a Data-Centric IoT

IoT interoperability is critical to the realization of the IoT on a global scale. This paper examines how seemingly obvious choices for perfect IoT interoperability are not so perfectly rational and offers the concept of "Rational Interoperability" as a means to frame and to scope the discussion. We identify why a new framing conceptualization adds value. We explore the gradations, progression and implications of Rational Interoperability: from good-enough interoperability in a pervasively connected world, to enriched interoperability for trusted groups of Things, to the aspirational goal to use interoperability requirements to guide the behavior of groups of Things toward the common good. To motivate Rational Interoperability, we describe architectural shifts underway in the IoT and present key building blocks, both of which play pivotal roles and impact its realization. We examine pragmatic near-term goals for IoT interoperability, as well as longer-term research directions. Throughout, we share lessons learned from IoT standards, highlighting pragmatic and philosophical viewpoints. Finally, we identify the gaps, challenges and opportunities in realizing IoT interoperability, including meta-data handling, enhanced discovery, data-driven insights, data-centric networks and the coordination of collective behaviors.