[For Beginners] Understanding the Relationship Between IoT, Big Data, AI, and GIS—Using the Human Body as an Analogy!

“IoT," "big data," "AI," and "GIS.”

These terms frequently appear in discussions about digital transformation (DX) and smart cities. Many people may have a basic understanding of each concept, but still wonder:

How are they connected?

Surprisingly, the relationship among these four technologies becomes much clearer when we compare them to the functions of the human body. Below, we explain how this powerful technological quartet works together to shape the future.

Comparing the "Strongest Quartet" to the Human Body

The four technologies operate in a sequence: gathering information → processing it → making decisions → taking action. Now, let's map them to human functions:

IoT = The "Five Senses" of the Digital World

IoT (Internet of Things) enables physical objects to collect and transmit data using sensors and communication technology.

Examples: city surveillance cameras, river water level sensors, smartphone GPS.

Just like the five senses gather information for our body, IoT captures real-time conditions from the world around us.

Big Data = The "Nervous System"

With countless IoT devices generating enormous streams of data, big data technology is essential to collect, store, and process it efficiently.

This functions like the nervous system—delivering accurate, timely information to the brain.

AI = The "Brain" That Thinks and Predicts

AI analyzes vast volumes of data, identifies patterns, and predicts outcomes.
For example: "Based on rising traffic volume trends, a congestion is likely to occur within 30 minutes.”

AI transforms raw data into actionable intelligence—just like the brain interprets sensory information and makes decisions.

GIS = The "Spatial Awareness" That Answers "Where?"

Even if AI detects a risk, the insight is meaningless without knowing where it applies.
GIS (Geographic Information System) visualizes data on maps, enabling intuitive understanding — like a brain recognizing the location of objects around us.

Real-World Applications

Example 1: Smart Agriculture

1. IoT: Drones and field sensors monitor crops and soil.

2. Big Data: Collects and manages large volumes of agricultural data.

3. AI: Identifies areas needing water,  fertilizer, or pest control.

4. GIS: Highlights target areas on the farm map; drones make precise treatments.

Example 2: Next-Generation Disaster Management

1. IoT: Water level gauges, rain sensors, GPS track real-time conditions.

2. Big Data: Rapid processing of constantly changing environmental data.

3. AI: Predicts flood risks and infrastructure vulnerabilities.

4. GIS: Visualizes flooded zones, sends evacuation alerts to residents in specific locations.

Summary

IoT, big data, AI, and GIS are not standalone technologies — they work as an integrated system:

Sense (IoT) → Transmit (Big Data) → Think (AI) → Act Locationally (GIS)

This unified structure forms the foundation of smart cities and digital transformation, helping create a safer, smarter, and more efficient society.