Our relationship with each other has evolved over the past 10 years. We are always connected, thanks to the widespread use of smart devices and the internet.
At first, the difference was barely noticeable. However, in the coming years, there won’t be many facets of our existence that aren’t interconnected. We use our cell phones to place restaurant orders, check in with loved ones on social media, and download apps for nearly everything. But, until recently, businesses and manufacturing did not enjoy the same penetration level.
To find their way to work, employees would use a navigation app or a GPS with a satellite connection. In the workplace, however, they would huddle around a whiteboard to analyze data. Or carry out challenging tasks according to hand-written job instructions. The emergence of new digital technologies has ushered in the connected era of work. The business world is undergoing fast change due to changing demographics and technology, while still observing and striving for effective mission statements.
Connected worker platforms are an excellent example of this new wave of innovation sweeping across businesses and providing new growth opportunities. They combine cutting-edge technology, like AI and IoT analytics, with legacy systems to eliminate paperwork and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of worker duties.
A connected worker platform or initiative doesn’t have a standard definition, but we’ll go into more detail about it in this article.
How Does Connected Worker Technology Work?
Technology for connected workers is rising in popularity across various businesses as an effective means of scaling a company.
The purpose of the connected worker architecture is to maintain ongoing contact between employees and managers. The objective of this communication is to aid large distributed teams achieve operational excellence by preventing mistakes that are typically considered unavoidable.
It is made possible by numerous technological developments. Modern hardware and wearables are combined with the newest software programs in a connected worker platform. From a distance, employees and managers can monitor critical project paths and dashboards, making data visible to anyone who needs it.
A new standard of frontline excellence is the outcome of this setup. Facilities can improve their bottom line with connected worker technology.
What Are the Components of the Connected Worker Platform?
Connected worker platforms are enabling facilities to grow even further and faster. More than ever, frontline employees and executives who are connected are finding it easy to collaborate. It allows businesses to thrive.
Let’s examine each of the elements of this system below in more detail.
Robotics
Robotics technology is another crucial component of the connected worker platform. Workplace duties that humans perform can be done by machines.
Robotics is being used by numerous businesses around the world to physically manage their inventories. The use of AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) in warehouses and other work sites is growing.
These machines have independent thinking abilities. They can plot paths on warehouse floors and also lift substantial weights. Many of these machines can lift loads of up to 2,000 pounds.
IoT devices
In terms of technology, the internet of things (IoT) is a relatively new idea. It is the notion that individual hardware and software “internets” exist. Because WiFi and cloud computing has advanced, these platforms can communicate with one another.
The term “Internet of Things” in the context of business refers to sensors, systems, and other tools that communicate with one another via computers.
These interconnected systems enable manufacturing facilities to stay up to date with events unfolding on site. On a tablet or mobile device, all of this information is accessible via a unified, uncomplicated dashboard.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
The connected worker platform includes critical components for AI and machine learning (ML).
The manufacturing industry often uses AI and ML to help eliminate wasteful processes. They also aid in trash reduction. These software tools can also be used to learn more about the market in your particular industry and adjust to new trends. They can also help to reduce lead time, production delays, and workflow bottlenecks.
Workplace safety is another area where AI and ML offer significant benefits. They can help businesses comply with industry standards. Additionally, you can use AI and ML to manage your environmental impact. There’s really no limit to how you can utilize such tools, even when it comes to conversational AI.
Additionally, supply chain visibility and product quality are served by AI and ML’s advantages. Several businesses in the manufacturing and distribution sectors use sensors on packages and shipping equipment. It enables management to monitor inventories during travel and preserve the quality of products.
Automation
Many of the regular tasks that factory workers perform can be automated with the help of technology. The linked worker platform allows for the digitization of standard operating procedures.
Connected worker platforms can also assist in automating the employee training process. Work manuals and guidelines can be translated into digital, easy-to-read formats. Software platforms can help provide proactive customer support.
Additionally, all corporate assets can be digitized for later use. As a result, workers always have a reference point – even decades into their professional lives.
Robots or autonomous software can also efficiently handle repetitive tasks.
A benefit of this is a reduction in human error. You can rely on machines to carry out tasks the same way, each time, making data and processes more precise. Automation can also help improve your customer relationship marketing.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is one of the most influential recent innovations. The industrial sector is changing thanks to the same technology that powers Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies.
Operations are already being made more efficient by blockchain applications. They also make it possible for these facilities to track orchestration data more precisely.
From an engineering perspective, this technology can also help in transforming production. The long-term design of highly-complex products is possible with blockchain technology. Additionally, they can guarantee adherence to engineering and other business regulations.
Why Invest in a Connected Worker Platform?
A connected worker platform can connect many technologies, including hardware and software based on “Industry 4.0” (another name for IoT) technologies. As a result, a responsive, integrated work management system is created, contextualizing workers’ actions within a comprehensive management system in real-time.
This implies that employees can access responsive, capable systems that efficiently exchange data with other equipment and devices involved in operations.
The connected worker platform also gives employees access to the same data, reducing the possibility of mistakes. These platforms improve workplace safety and streamline decision-making at all levels – which is valuable for any business, regardless of the industry.
Connected Workers Are Happy Workers
There is unlimited potential for growth with the connected worker platform. This has a major positive impact on the business and also the people who use it. It simplifies work processes and improves the accuracy of outcomes.
More can be accomplished by utilizing IoT technology, automation, robotics, and blockchain technology for your business. Additionally, managers can relax with the knowledge that their work is being done more precisely.
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