Skip to content
MarketScale
‹ Back to IndustriesIndustrial IoT

Predicting the Unpredictable With Data

The digital transformation accelerated in 2020, prompting the rapid adoption of new technologies and practices, especially AI and ML. TC Riley advises businesses on successfully implementing AI/ML projects by setting clear goals and focusing on clean data inputs.

This story was produced through MarketScale. See how Industrial IoT teams put it to work with AI Visibility (GEO).

By Industrial Iot · AiArtificial IntelligenceDataDiving Into Data
Share
Predicting the Unpredictable With Data

Key takeaways

01

AI and Machine Learning have gained traction as key technologies for future advancement.

02

Set well-defined, achievable goals to ensure successful AI and ML project outcomes.

03

Properly clean and refine data inputs to maximize the effectiveness of Machine Learning.

Our society has been moving in a more digital direction for years, but 2020 kicked us into high gear when it came time to finding new digital solutions for work, education, socializing, and entertainment. With the forced digital transformation of many companies, we’re seeing a strong emergence of certain technologies and practices. Overall the ‘value of data’ has increased to many companies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in particular have come into focus for many as what is “next up” for advancement.

TC Riley, host of Diving Into Data, shared his top tips and tricks that illustrate that AI and ML span many levels and that you don’t need experts to implement these techniques.

Set a Defined & Simple Goal

Riley explained that your project should have a very simple, focused goal. He says that one of the easiest ways to derail an AI or ML project is by trying to tackle too much on your first attempt. Make each goal achievable and clear.

Work Toward an Impactful Result

That being said, you also need to ensure that simplicity doesn’t result in a watered-down expected result. Riley urged listeners to work for something that will have a measurable impact, and to ensure you’re looking at a core competency of your business. Your efforts should always produce actionable results.

Clean Your Data

Riley explained that ML is an incredible tool, but the opportunities it provides for data analysis are only as good as the data inputs. Take enough time to properly clean and refine your data before launch.

Avoid “Scope Creep”

He warned that analysis projects do tend to creep outside their initial scope. Make sure you stick to the predefined goal and project scope. There will be more time for future projects down the road.

According to Riley, “If you’re a business leader control what you can control. The biggest requirement to me of a business leader right now and what they can do, is understanding data and being able to make informed decisions with any and all external factors that may be into play. You need leaders who are able to appreciate the data, but also appreciate what the data can’t show or the unpredictable elements of that data,” Riley said.

Catch up on all episodes of Diving Into Data!

About the author

II
Industrial Iot

Industrial IoT: are you visible to AI?

Before they reach out, Industrial IoT buyers ask AI engines which vendors to trust. See how AI describes your company today, and where competitors show up instead.

Free workspace

You just read one Industrial IoT expert. Imagine publishing your whole team.

This article was produced through MarketScale. Create a free workspace and turn your own team's Industrial IoT expertise into the articles, video, and social content B2B marketing buyers in your industry are searching for. No credit card, no demo required.

NPS +73 · 1,000+ creators · 38+ countries

What you get, free

Your own MarketScale Studio workspace
One video edit a month, on us
AI writing, editing, and publishing tools
In-platform coaching to learn the system

More Industrial IoT Insights

Roland Berger forecasts 6-9% annual growth as industrial automation shifts from traditional systems to intelligent platforms

Roland Berger forecasts 6-9% annual growth as industrial automation shifts from traditional systems to intelligent platforms

Industrial automation is poised for significant growth, with a forecasted annual increase of 6-9% driven by a shift from traditional systems to intelligent platforms. Despite the advancements, current capabilities lag behind the excitement surrounding humanoid robotics at Automate 2026.

  • 01Industrial automation is expected to see annual growth of 6-9% over the next five years.
  • 02There is a growing excitement around humanoid robotics, but practical deployments on factory floors are currently limited.
  • 03The shift from traditional automation systems to intelligent platforms is driving market growth.

Jul 24, 2026

93% of manufacturers have MES, but only 23% have fully integrated it across the enterprise

93% of manufacturers have MES, but only 23% have fully integrated it across the enterprise

A report by Rockwell Automation reveals that while 93% of manufacturers have adopted Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), only 23% have fully integrated these systems enterprise-wide. This discrepancy highlights a challenge in achieving full digital transformation across the manufacturing sector.

  • 01Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) have been adopted by 93% of manufacturers.
  • 02Only 23% of manufacturers have fully integrated MES across their enterprise.
  • 03Enterprise-wide integration of MES is essential for complete digital transformation in manufacturing.

Jul 24, 2026

AI kaizens, agentic systems, and pricing pressure: what manufacturers are actually doing with IIoT in 2026

AI kaizens, agentic systems, and pricing pressure: what manufacturers are actually doing with IIoT in 2026

The industrial sector is transitioning its use of AI from pilot programs to operational applications, particularly on the plant floor. Companies are exploring AI-driven kaizens, agentic systems, and are debating outcome-based pricing models as part of their industrial IoT strategies. This shift indicates a move towards integrating AI technology more deeply into manufacturing processes by 2026.

  • 01Industrial AI is shifting from pilot projects to operational use in manufacturing facilities.
  • 02Outcome-based pricing models are being debated within the industrial AI sector.
  • 03AI-driven kaizens and agentic systems are being utilized in industrial IoT strategies.

Jul 24, 2026

Explore More Industrial IoT Insights

Read more expert perspectives from across Industrial IoT.

Browse Industrial IoT Hub

About the Experts

II
Industrial Iot
TR
TC Riley

Host

TC Riley is the host of the Diving Into Data podcast where he shares insights on AI and ML implementation.

For B2B teams

Your experts could be publishing here

Stories like this one run on content MarketScale captures from real practitioners. See how your team's expertise becomes coverage in Industrial IoT and beyond.

Book a 15-minute demo

Or call us. No forms required. We pick up. 214-945-2512