Techniques for Eliciting IoT Requirements: Sensorina Map and Mind IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) comprises devices that communicate and process data over the Internet. Requirement elicitation in IoT systems is crucial but faces challenges such as heterogeneity, interoperability, scalability, and requirements volatility. This work introduces two new techniques to support this phase: the Sensorina Map, inspired by the Empathy Map, and Mind IoT, based on the Mind Map. We conducted two empirical studies in an academic setting to assess the viability of these techniques. The first study evaluated ease of use and effectiveness in helping engineers recall requirements, utilizing a Focus Group to gather perceptions. The second observational study assessed the techniques’ utility and ease of use. Results indicated that these methods are viable and can significantly contribute to IoT systems research and practice, benefiting professionals and researchers.