Connected workers are revolutionizing the industry.

Today, many people automatically think of the Internet of Things (IoT) when connected technologies are mentioned. IoT uses sensors and beacons to track assets and products for predictive maintenance, automation, and supply chain management. But, the fact is that these types of solutions are more than just the concept of IoT.  It transforms and changes how workers do their jobs. This blog post dives deeper into the subject of a connected worker, explains what it means, how it helps organizations, and gives valuable examples of solutions. 

What is a connected worker?

A connected worker is an employee with technology tools connected to run their everyday work. The tools can be smartphones, tablets, wearables, or other devices. The devices are connected to the internet and communicate with colleagues, managers, and the broader organization in various ways. 

For example, field workers use connected devices to access real-time data and information, communicate with their team members, collaborate on projects, and access training and support materials. They can work remotely on the go and from anywhere by continually staying connected.

Collecting data and analytics on employee performance enables organizations to improve productivity, enhance safety, and optimize business operations. Overall, the concept of a connected worker represents a shift toward a more flexible, collaborative, and data-driven approach to work. Most importantly, it empowers the individual worker while improving overall organizational performance.

Industries implementing connected workers

We’re still in the middle of a digital transformation, and much new technology is constantly growing. However, there are great examples of how manufacturing, energy and utilities, construction, mining, and oil and gas businesses have taken advantage of new technologies.

In these industries, several technology solutions help workers access real-time data and information, communicate with their team members, and collaborate on projects, even in remote or hazardous environments. Wearables and IoT devices are used in energy and utilities to monitor equipment and detect potential problems, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Similarly, in the construction industry, workers can use these technologies to track project progress, improve safety, and optimize workflows.

However, the concept of a connected worker is also on the horizon in other industries. In healthcare, retail, and hospitality, connected workers improve efficiency, enhance customer service, and enable remote work. Adopting new technology is expected to grow across industries as organizations seek to optimize their operations and remain competitive.

The most common tools used by connected field workers 

Several technical tools and platforms are used to stay connected, and the choice of which one to use depends on the specific needs and requirements of the organization.

However, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are the most used. They provide a flexible and portable platform for accessing data and communicating with colleagues and supervisors. Cloud-based platforms and applications are also widely used to manage and analyze data collected from connected worker devices. These platforms enable organizations to store, research, and share data in real time, providing a centralized location for all data.

Other technical tools and platforms commonly used include wearables such as smartwatches and safety glasses, IoT devices such as sensors and beacons, and augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies that provide workers with real-time information and guidance.

Overall, there are clear trends in which technical solutions and platforms enable connectivity. But with that said, it’s not sure that those are the ones most suited for your company. You should constantly evaluate solutions based on your organization’s unique needs and requirements.

The biggest benefits of a connected worker

The concept of a connected worker can help the industry in several ways. Let us go through some examples of how it benefits organizations:

• Improved productivity and efficiency
  Connected worker technologies enable workers to access real-time data and information, collaborate with team members, and receive expert support. It can help them to complete tasks more quickly and accurately, improving overall productivity and leading to increased output and reduced downtime.
  
  
• Cost savings
  Organizations can reduce manual labor, downtime, and maintenance costs to optimize workflows and streamline processes.
  
  
• Increased flexibility and mobility
  It allows workers to perform their jobs from anywhere, anytime, improving flexibility and mobility. It is particularly beneficial for construction, manufacturing, and field service industries, where workers are often on the move and need real-time access to information and support. It also enables organizations to respond quickly to changing market conditions, customer demands, and other challenges.
  
  
• Improved collaboration and communication
  Cooperation and communication between workers, teams, and experts, regardless of location, helps reduce workplace misunderstandings, delays, and errors.
  
  
• Improved employee engagement
  Organizations can enhance employee engagement and job satisfaction by providing workers with access to training and support materials and opportunities for collaboration and feedback.
  
  
• Enhanced safety
  Providing workers with real-time safety alerts, remote monitoring, and other safety features helps reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Overall, a connected worker represents a significant opportunity for organizations to optimize operations, improve safety and productivity, and remain competitive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.

Companies providing digital worker software

Many companies provide tools and solutions for connected workers. Here are a few examples:

• Microsoft - provides solutions such as Microsoft Teams, Power Apps, and Power BI for collaboration, data analysis, and workflow automation.
  
  
• Honeywell - provides connected worker solutions such as wearables, sensors, and mobile devices for manufacturing, energy, and utility industries.
  
  
• Oracle - provides cloud-based platforms and applications for managing and analyzing connected worker data and solutions for mobile workforce management.
  
  
• Cisco - provides IoT solutions for connected workers, such as sensors and beacons, and collaboration tools like Webex Teams.
  
  
• IBM - provides solutions for connected workers, such as the Watson IoT Platform, for collecting and analyzing data from connected devices, as well as for predictive maintenance and other applications.
  
  
• RealWear – AR smart glasses devices enable remote workers to access information and communicate with colleagues and supervisors for a hands-free experience.
  
  
• XMReality- providing a remote visual assistance solution designed to help organizations improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance safety by enabling remote experts to provide real-time support and guidance to workers in the field, regardless of location.

As the adoption of connected worker technologies continues to grow, many more companies will continuously enter this space, offering new and innovative solutions to meet the needs of organizations and their workers.