When we talk about digital transformation in manufacturing, we tend to focus on the technology. We talk about the Internet of Things, AR, AI and other exciting sounding terms, but we rarely focus on the role of the workforce.
The ‘connected workforce’ is the term given to the role of humans in the new era of tech-powered manufacturing, often called ‘Industry 4.0’. The connected workforce means empowering your people with the best technology to boost safety, workplace satisfaction, communication, collaboration and more. In this article, we’ll tell you more about it.
Benefits of the connected workforce
When you empower your workforce with the right emerging technology, the company and your employees gain a wide range of benefits, including:
- Productivity and efficiency – Tech enables workers to access information quicker, reducing delays and errors, improving overall productivity
- Safety – Connected workers can get on-demand access to safety information. Tech such as augmented reality (AR) helps them focus on their tasks while receiving guidance in real time
- Costs – Increased efficiency reduces costs by minimising production errors that cause defects
- Employee engagement – Tech can help workers stay focused on their tasks. Investing in people’s work also increases job satisfaction
- Communication – New tech helps workers access remote expert support so they can solve problems faster and without travelling
- Visibility – Real-time data helps managers monitor production, address issues faster and reduce safety issues
It all sounds great. But how do you do it?
How to build a connected workforce
The first step in building a connected workforce should be investing in the right technology. Take the time to select the tech that fits your company’s specific needs rather than just copying your competitors. Getting this right ensures the biggest rises in productivity and employee engagement.
Next, work on the culture inside your company. Your frontline workers have the most to gain when they become ‘connected’, but they’re probably also resistant to change, especially if they think automation is out to take their jobs. Build relationships with your people to show that you’re investing in their skills, not trying to replace them. Help them understand how emerging technologies can benefit them. AR is a great way to train your people as they can learn by doing rather than reading books or sitting in a classroom. Once your AR solutions are up and running, you can also use it for remote support.
Finally, train your people in the new technologies you select. Help them take ownership of their new solutions and answer any questions they may have. Most solutions are user-friendly and rely on hardware your people will already be familiar with, such as iPads. However, there will always be new concepts for them to learn.
Challenges for the connected workforce
Of course, revolutionising your workforce in this way won’t be an entirely smooth process. The key is to plan thoroughly and take your time. Trying to rush through significant change will cause more problems than it solves. For example, if you haven’t already digitised your content, you’ll need to do that before you can implement AR. You must also look at your legacy IT systems and devices to ensure they can support your new solutions.
There’s also the human side. Everyone struggles with transition in some way. Companies that find the most success with a connected workforce understand this and make allowances for it. They sell the benefits of technology while also addressing their employees’ concerns.
Are you ready
The benefits of building a connected workforce can be dramatic for your manufacturing business. It’s a journey, but it’s worth taking the time.
