10 Mar The Rise of the Connected Worker in Manufacturing and Warehouse Operations
The Rise of the Connected Worker in Manufacturing and Warehouse Operations
The manufacturing and warehouse industries have undergone a transformation in recent years, driven by advancements in technology and the emergence of the connected worker. The term “connected worker” refers to a worker equipped with technology that allows them to be connected to the Internet, other workers, and company systems in real-time. The connected worker is able to access information and resources, communicate with colleagues, and complete tasks more efficiently and effectively, regardless of their location.
In manufacturing facilities, connected workers use mobile devices and software applications that facilitate communication, collaboration, and data access. This can improve quality control, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency by allowing workers to access real-time production data, view work instructions and schematics, and communicate with their team members.
In warehouse settings, connected workers use mobile devices to access inventory data and complete tasks such as picking and packing more efficiently. Wearable devices like smart glasses or smartwatches are also becoming increasingly popular in these scenarios, providing access to information that allows workers to keep their hands free to complete tasks.
Three Key Benefits of the Connected Worker:
1) Increased Productivity
By having real-time access to information and resources, workers can complete tasks more efficiently and effectively. This can result in improved quality control, reduced downtime, and increased overall efficiency. Furthermore, the ability to communicate with colleagues in real-time can help to resolve any issues or challenges more quickly, reducing the impact of any potential bottlenecks or roadblocks.
2) Improved Safety
By having access to real-time information and resources, workers can make better informed decisions and avoid potential safety hazards. Additionally, by utilizing wearable devices, workers are keeping their hands free for the tasks at hand, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
3) Better Overall Work Experience
By having real-time access to information and resources, workers can complete tasks more efficiently and effectively, which can help to improve their overall job satisfaction. The ability to communicate with colleagues in real-time can help build stronger relationships and foster a sense of community among workers, further contributing to a more positive work environment.
The rise of the connected worker has enormous benefits for both workers and companies. For workers, it provides them with greater flexibility and control over their work. They can access information and resources when and where they need it and can communicate with their team members easily and efficiently. For companies, the connected worker can help improve productivity, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency.
MASS Group’s flagship product, Traceability Made Easy (TME®), perfectly aligns with the rise of the connected worker in today’s world. TME® is a comprehensive solution that allows manufacturing companies to manage all aspects of their operations, including product management, equipment uptime, maintenance, warehouse inventory, quality, and traceability, from a single platform. With its real-time data collection, business analytics, and reporting capabilities, TME® has helped numerous manufacturers achieve enhanced efficiency and cost savings.
The TME® suite comprises four components, including a manufacturing execution solution (MES), a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), inventory and warehouse management (WMS), and quality control (SPC/QC). The solution seamlessly integrates with clients’ ERP systems, accounting systems, and even the actual equipment to collect real-time data and presents all the critical information through one single intuitive dashboard. TME® has been designed to be 100% cloud-based and offers numerous benefits to all warehouse and manufacturing operations, including complete traceability and genealogy from cradle to grave, hassle-free inventory management, and production management for on-time product delivery. Managers and analysts can have real-time visibility into all operations through an intuitive dashboard, enabling them to act on any issue at the right time.