Over the recent years, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become a hot topic. The concept involves the automatic integration of various appliances within a global network, which has been going on for decades, although it’s only recently it has undergone rapid development. Although some inventors are taking the idea to the extreme by connecting everything to the Internet, IoT devices offer many undeniable benefits that many companies can benefit from. Below, check out some benefits of using IoT in the workplace.
Increased Productivity
One of the benefits of IoT in workplaces is it boosts performance, leading to improved productivity. Integrating IoT into your work processes can help you accomplish over a thousand tasks in a few seconds. In addition, IoT devices in workplaces can help to reduce barriers and limitations that could affect productivity.
With multiple computers and devices connected in a network using IoT, employees will find it easier to accomplish tasks, leading to improved performance and productivity. They can join meetings anywhere, and managers can integrate workplace regulations without being present at work. High-speed solutions can minimise latency, which grants easy access and allows for the smooth execution of transactions.
IoT also allows the integration of cloud-based solutions, allowing remote teams to collaborate with onsite workers working digitally, allowing them to speed-up projects despite working from various locations. Certain applications can help workers navigate facilities not familiar to them in less time. In addition, office automation solutions can help scale various workplace processes, such as procurement, product design and delivery, and various administrative tasks. All of these can improve productivity and efficiency at all levels of work.
Improving Collaboration
Thanks to all the changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the remote work setup is gaining momentum, resulting in an increased need for better collaboration and support across different teams. While standard video conferencing tools can fill some of these needs, advanced IoT technologies can take a step further.
The use of connected devices had a significant impact on where and how people work. Employees no longer need to share physical workspace for as long as they have the right equipment. IoT allows software to be hosted in the cloud, enhancing video conferencing and better remote collaboration.
High-end telepresence robots offer better experiences for collaboration. Instead of experiencing statics in video call conference, computers can connect to robots to offer callers more virtual presence. With this technology, professionals can communicate with onsite teams, move around with less guidance, and explore facilities virtually with only a few clicks.
Other IoT technologies, such as augmented reality, offer real-life experiences, allowing users to test products or navigate dangerous scenarios remotely. Things are becoming more exciting, with many innovative developments still in their infancy. These technologies can significantly improve how teams communicate with each other regardless of location.
Advanced Business Insights
IoT devices allow organisations to gather data for better insights about their businesses, internally and externally. The use of IoT for advanced business insights opens up opportunities for recruitment in the IoT sector, as more companies will be relying on these specialists.
One example of IoT for business insights is the use of beacon technology and other devices by retail stores to redesign their shops according to real-time traffic patterns. Another is the use of internet-connected IoT devices by logistic firms to align delivery locations and schedules, making the most efficient use of employees and other resources.
Businesses using IoT for modernisation throughout their organisation can reduce the time required to market new products or services while improving their ROI. IoT technologies can add value to the business faster and more efficiently since more actionable data from devices will be readily available.
IoT-enabled sensors and other technologies facilitate the collection of extensive data on product performance, consumer behaviour, etc. For instance, wearables can track how people move around, sleep, eat, or exercise. The insights businesses can gain from the data that the devices gather allow them to improve their products or services and effectively meet the customers’ needs. In addition, the data helps companies to streamline short-term and long-term business activities.
Lower Operating Costs
Investing in a fleet of IoT devices can be cost-effective as it helps businesses optimise their workflows, resulting in lower operating costs by offering real-time information. IoT-enabled devices can proactively advise of their status, allowing staff to schedule maintenance before it can affect production.
Companies can integrate IoT-powered devices into large systems to optimise efficiency, helping to reduce operational costs. For instance, smart building systems can monitor and control HVAC systems to keep track of building usage and make necessary adjustments to take advantage of lower time use, saving the company some money.
In addition, IoT-enabled smart office solutions are paving the way for organisations to cut costs in various areas. Sensors can capture real-time occupancy to optimise energy consumption and solve issues like insufficient heating, overheating, excessive lighting, and other wastages. Furthermore, occupancy data allows companies to make good use of their space and accommodate more within offices, cutting down costs on rent.
Creating Smart Offices
IoT devices have been helping organisations create smart office spaces that can maintain healthy environments, organise shared areas, and save on utility costs. Optimising workplaces is integral for improving efficiency and productivity.
IoT helps create dynamic workspaces, allowing the use of offices for more collaborative work. In addition, unexpected changes like social distancing to stop the spread of COVID-19 can result in unpredictability in employee space usage, requiring permanent conversion of spaces to suit a dynamic working environment.
Aside from hybrid working, employers recognise the importance of having an office environment that can help improve the employees’ overall physical and mental health. Thus, they rely on IoT to ensure buildings have optimum environmental conditions like sufficient lighting and temperature.
For instance, IoT technologies can provide indoor air quality monitoring in offices. Poor air quality can happen due to many factors, contributing to significant short-term and long-term health risks for employees. Thus, monitoring indoor air quality is especially essential for workplaces.