Through its "Work with Nest" program, the company is opening up its digital cloud program to devices from other providers. So far, partners include Whirlpool and Mercedes Benz. The connection with Mercedes allows drivers to adjust the Nest thermostat to insure a comfortable temperature upon arrival home. The Whirlpool integration provides the means to schedule wash and dry cycles during nonpeak hours. Using its digital cloud platform, Nest can enter other sectors by opening up its digital cloud platform to devices and services from other providers. Recent reports are that Nest is partnering with ADT, the world's largest home security firm.2The two companies could connect Nest's Internet-connected thermostat with ADT's Pulse system that allows its customers to control their security system through a mobile app.

1Iansiti and Lakhani, "Digital Ubiquity," p. 95.

: Propose a segmentation plan that Nest might use to target the small- and medium-sized business market.