By Michael Pearson

The Center for the Development and Application of Internet of Things Technologies (CDAIT) is moving to the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts from its founding home at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI).

CDAIT, which seeks to foster interdisciplinary Internet of Things (IoT) thought leadership, research, and education, will now be located in the School of Public Policy’s Center for Advanced Communications Policy (CACP).

The move will allow for a more intensive focus on the many critical social and policy issues facing the IoT field while maintaining the Center’s deep expertise in technological issues, according to Marilyn Brown, interim chair of the School of Public Policy.

“Combining CDAIT’s engineering experience and industry partnerships with CACP’s recognized expertise in efficiently addressing and connecting technological and social issues, and leveraging the School’s expertise in bridging socio-technical issues through rigorous policy research will provide crucial synergy to drive IoT advances that benefit business, the public, and the environment,” Brown said.

Alain Louchez, who is stepping down from his role as managing director of CDAIT on July 1, called CACP an “optimal match” for CDAIT. He cited CACP’s work to influence the development and implementation of cutting-edge communication technologies and policy; the School’s focus on understanding science, technology and innovation; and the Ivan Allen College’s overarching mission to bridge social concerns and technologies and improve the human condition.

“The combination of these educational and research assets, including access to a talented pool of students, provides the intellectual foundry necessary to the development of compelling IoT innovation serving both business and society through a mutually beneficial relationship,” Louchez said.

CDAIT describes itself as an action-oriented, partner-funded think tank that seeks to serve as an incubator for ideas in the IoT field. Six working groups focus on issues such as education and training, the startup ecosystem, security and privacy, standards and management, research, and thought leadership.

Paul M.A. Baker, Senior Director of Research at CACP, will take over as interim chief operating officer. Louchez will remain involved as CDAIT director emeritus and as a research fellow at CACP. Jeff Evans, a GTRI principal research scientist who also has an appointment in CACP, will continue his leadership role as co-PI and chair of the Center’s Executive Advisory Board.

“One of the strengths of the Ivan Allen College and the School of Public Policy is the ability to provide a translational approach to technological issues that helps provide a broader social context,” said Baker. “Bringing these approaches to CDAIT represents an incredible opportunity for synergy between policy perspectives and the advancement of IoT systems.”

Evans said a broader perspective on policy issues will strengthen CDAIT’s mission.

“With IoT becoming a widespread, essential capability for integrated, networked applications, it is important to broaden CDAIT’s perspectives to include policy and engagement for all users,” he said. “CACP’s outstanding history and mission focused on researching a large range of issues surrounding cutting-edge communications technologies clearly demonstrate that it is an ideal location to widen CDAIT’s development and provide a forum for even greater and fuller impact by Georgia Tech in collaboration with industry and government leaders.”

Evans praised Louchez’ leadership, saying his “knowledge of the IoT market space and industry requirements is unparalleled.”

Louchez said CDAIT’s future is secure with the involvement of Baker and CACP Executive Director Brad Fain.

“Brad and Paul have been closely associated with CDAIT throughout its young history,” Louchez said. “Brad was an early supporter and quickly identified research commonalities between CDAIT and HomeLab, which he leads. Paul has offered his help and guidance in the management of the CDAIT working group on IoT thought leadership so we’re looking forward to a seamless transition.”