We have more and more capacity for online measurement, sensorization (having as many sensors in a device as possible) and artificial intelligence for real-time analysis, to name but a few. These combined with tools for remote working help us in making the best decisions for our operations.
In 2020, due to the global pandemic, the need to implement these technologies went from being a medium- or long-term objective to becoming a priority. The need and speed of the digital transformation of companies grew exponentially.
What is the most needed and required digital solution?
The ability to connect and execute our daily tasks remotely, with the aim of maintaining a normal flow in business.
The latter will undoubtedly generate a change in how we work and connect in the future. There is a number of attractive advantages of the “home office” and remote services in different markets and industries. Although today they have quickly become almost a number one focus area, they should be maintained over time, given their positive effects on business.
Let’s take a further look at some of the advantages.
FLEXIBILITY IN WORK
Many professionals today love working from home, and the flexibility it offers. Together with flexible hours, working from home has become a way to attract and retain talent within organizations.
COST AND EFFICIENCY
It is more than clear that when travelling to a client or site we must invest in transport, time, and other things creating expenses that we could avoid almost completely if we provided the service remotely. By doing so, we would be able to do more, in less time and more efficiently in terms of cost, both for clients and for service providers.
PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY
Remote work prevents us from being exposed to a number of risks that can exist in an operation, ranging from those associated with commuting to exposure to hazardous substances or actions. For sure, we can control risks in the field, but there is no better way to increase safety than simply not being exposed. Having workers and services that are delivered remotely helps reduce exposure to risk, while increasing labor productivity.
SPEED OF RESPONSE
Often, we need to wait to get a response. Probably more than one of us has been in a situation where we need a specific expert to evaluate a machine or process and that person is not available for a few days. With the ability to digitally connect to jobs and view the site remotely with, for example, augmented reality glasses, we could have the expert evaluating our machine in hours.
SUSTAINABILITY
Without a doubt, reducing the time used for traveling and the use of fuel and other materials as well as reducing the amount of working clothes and protective gear for each person will generate a significant reduction in carbon emissions and waste generation per person. We must take sustaWe must take sustainability into account more and more.