Smart Factory: How IIoT supports your employees
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Imagine being able to increase the efficiency of your machinery and support your employees at the same time — that is the vision of the future that Industry 4.0 paints for the manufacturing sector. IIoT technology promises benefits not only for the company, but also for workers on the shop floor. In this article, you'll learn how the intelligent smart factory will change the future of manufacturing and why employees will continue to play a central role in it.
Industry 4.0, also known as the fourth industrial revolution, is bringing about many changes in the manufacturing sector. One of them is the use of IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) networks to connect production plants, machines and personnel. While this technology offers many benefits, such as increased efficiency and productivity, it can also raise concerns among employees and managers who fear that automating their jobs could make them fired.
More time for more complex tasks
But the truth is that IIoT networks don't replace the work of employees and plants, but rather support them. By networking production plants and machines, data can be collected and evaluated in order to improve production efficiency and increase the quality of products. That means employees have to spend less time completing manual tasks and more time focusing on more complex tasks and projects.
More safety on the shop floor
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Another advantage of IIoT networks is that they can help improve workplace safety. By monitoring machines and systems, potential problems can be identified and resolved early on before they can lead to accidents or failures. The option of remote access to the systems also makes it possible to carry out maintenance work faster and more efficiently, which increases the availability of the systems and reduces costs.
Open communication reduces fear
With these benefits in mind, it is important that companies take their employees' fear of losing their jobs due to automation seriously. They should ensure that their employees receive the necessary training and support to effectively integrate their work with IIoT networks and reach their full potential. Also open communication with employees and a clear vision of the possibilities of IIoT networks to improve collaboration and communication within a company.
Milestone for digital collaboration
Another important area of application of IIoT networks is to support digital collaboration and communication processes. By exchanging data and information in real time between different departments and locations, collaboration and communication within a company can be significantly improved. This can speed up decision making, reduce response time to issues, and increase a company's flexibility and adaptability.
The option of remote access to machines and systems also allows employees to work more flexibly and independently from a fixed workplace. This can help improve the work-life balance and make the company more attractive as an employer.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, IIoT networks bring many benefits to the manufacturing industry, including increased efficiency, productivity, and security. It is important that companies take their employees' concerns seriously and ensure that they receive the necessary training and support to successfully integrate their work with IIoT networks. The possibilities of IIoT networks to improve collaboration and communication within a company should also not be underestimated.
Finally, we can say that IIoT networks do not pose a threat to workplaces, but can rather be a support for employees and workers. Companies should use technology to optimize their business processes and increase competitiveness, while helping employees reach their full potential.