In the current rapidly competitive manufacturing environment, the frontline workforce is the power source, driving manufacturing efficiency. However, industries are still plagued by traditional methods – manual, pen, and paper do not work anymore. It is in this context, that the adoption of new-age technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), analytics, and Connected Frontline Workforce (CFW) applications is the need of the hour that redefine how manufacturers can engage and empower the workforce, scaling them to new heights of efficiency.
In this blog, we will throw light on the swift adoption of CFW initiatives and how these technologies can bring about a sea-change in the rapid improvement of workforce efficiency. Apart from that, we will also critically understand how integrating technologies like AI and Analytics can further accentuate this process, scaling operational efficiency to new heights. Lastly, we will provide a few actionable strategies to the manufacturing leaders to successfully execute these initiatives.
Connected frontline workforce initiatives relate to the empowering of your frontline workforce with the right digital solutions that improve productivity, safety, and decision-making. This includes leveraging mobile devices, customized solutions, and integrated platforms that foster quick communication, enabling access to critical data. This integration helps the frontline workers to complete their tasks on the go, notify the respective stakeholders, and make the right decisions, fostering a collaborative work culture across an organization.
As discussed, empowering your workforce with the right digital tools fosters a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and efficiency at all levels. However, accomplishing this is not a mean task; it requires the right action plan, commitment, and active participation from frontline workers. These initiatives will be more successful for those workers who are proximate to the processes.
When your frontline workers can leverage the right technology and get access to real-time analytics and insights, they become the strong driving force in powering innovation. Let’s take a few examples of how technology can empower workers to drive efficiency to the next level.
This way, these tools not only boost the morale of your workers but also foster a culture of ownership and accountability among them.
The integration of AI and advanced analytics into CFW solutions is a game-changer for manufacturers looking to optimize their quality and efficiency. Using AI-powered solutions, you can analyze vast datasets in real time, offering predictive insights to help your workers optimize their tasks.
Let’s understand a few data-driven examples:
To fully maximize the immense potential of these technologies (AI, Analytics, and CFW) applications, it’s time for your organization to adopt the right action plan. So, here we present a few strategic steps to take this initiative forward:
Perform a comprehensive assessment of your present workforce management solutions and check gaps that you can address using digital tools.
Select the right CFW solution that connects easily with your existing systems, while offering the capability to scale in line with your future requirements.
Support your frontline workforce with the skills they need to adopt these technologies effectively. For this, conduct good training programs to get them proficient in advanced technologies, apart from training them to effectively handle change management.
Adopt AI-driven analytics solutions to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as downtime percentage, defect rates, and supply chain efficiency. A good option is to adopt a mobile solution that leverages advanced technologies like AI, Analytics, and IoT, helping you achieve the right objectives.
Adopt CFW applications to integrate disparate systems thereby breaking down silos between departments. This way, you can encourage cross-functional collaboration on improvement objectives.
Consistently track the RoI of your investments in AI and CFW solutions by measuring the positive impact on productivity, quality, and employee collaboration.
By implementing this course of action, you can generate a digitally equipped workforce that can drive continuous improvements on a scale.
The next question that arises is what type of solution should my organization adopt? Do I need to invest separately in cutting-edge technologies like AI, IoT, and analytics and integrate them with my existing applications? Or do I have one application that packs all the technologies while seamlessly integrating with my existing ERP applications?
The answer is simple. As discussed earlier, a good mobile asset maintenance solution that leverages cutting-edge technologies (AI, IoT and data analytics), while seamlessly integrating with your existing ERP system is the best bet for taking your digital transformation initiatives forward. In this context, look for a mobile asset maintenance solution as offered by Propel Apps that is cost-effective, user-friendly, incorporates innovative technologies, and easily integrates with your existing ERP system (Oracle or SAP). This solution empowers your workforce by offering real-time access to work orders, asset data, and maintenance insights anytime, anywhere, thereby serving as a truly connected frontline workforce platform. To know more about this solution and how it can help develop a digitally empowered workforce, schedule a free demo with us.
The manufacturing industry is on the verge of a renaissance, where digital transformation is no longer perceived as a luxury. With rising expectations of the workforce to deliver quality output, amid intense competition, it has become necessary to empower them with a digitally connected workforce platform. AI, analytics, and connected frontline workforce applications offer a powerful combination for achieving the desired results. These technologies play a major role in empowering frontline workers while playing an enabling role in helping leaders make data-driven decisions for sustained improvements across an organization.
However, investing in each of these technologies is a costly proposition and needs the right strategy and commitment. On the other hand, investing in a mobile asset maintenance solution that incorporates all these technologies, while seamlessly connecting with an in-house ERP system is the need of the hour. So, it’s time to make the right move to step into a world of innovation, where only efficiency and quality matter.
