In the last few years, dramatic new breakthroughs in technologies have led to the dramatic expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT). Smart technologies are increasingly impacting our lives, and this is especially true in the workplace. Adopting the IoT means investing in new software, systems and equipment, but the advantages that smart technologies in the office provide for your business outweigh the downside of costs for many companies. Here are some of the benefits of integrating the IoT into your workplace:
1. Simpler Compliance With Social Distancing
Even with the promise of vaccines, COVID-19 is likely to continue to impact businesses for a few more months to a year. As employees move from remote working back to their desks in the office, IoT can help you deploy a simple social distancing strategy to reduce the likelihood of viral transmission. Sensors can show employees exactly where their coworkers are at any given time, so they can make trips to the bathroom, refill their coffee cups and use the copier when traffic patterns are light. Plus, these sensors can help you visualize how people move through the office, enabling you to locate trouble spots where social distancing is difficult and new strategies are needed to address the problem.
2. Improved Productivity
The IoT can automate much of the busywork that gets in the way of productivity in the office. Centralized data capture can allow employees to update HR data from apps on their mobile devices rather than filling out countless forms for expense reports and benefits. Smart assistants can manage tasks like booking conference rooms, dialing into conference calls and updating calendars, giving employees more time to focus on their job duties.
3. A Healthier, More Comfortable Work Environment
Smart HVAC and lighting systems can make a positive impact on employee health and morale. Thermostats can adjust automatically in response to slight increases in temperature to keep conditions pleasant in every season. Lights can dim when natural lighting is abundant and gradually brighten as the sun shifts throughout the day, ensuring that employees have enough illumination to prevent eye strain. IoT-enabled air filtration systems can tell you instantly what the air quality is like in every part of the office as well.
4. A Greener Workplace With Reduced Operating Costs
Because IoT gives you more control over everything from lighting to heating to office equipment, you can reduce energy waste throughout your office. This furthers your efforts toward achieving your company's sustainability goals and helps to protect the planet. Reductions in energy usage also positively impact your bottom line by lowering utility costs. Smart technologies like robotic vacuums can take the savings further by reducing the cost of janitorial services.
5. Streamlined Asset Management and Purchasing
With IoT, you can improve the way you lend and track devices like laptops, smartphones, tablets and projectors. Smart devices can also let you know when it's time to reorder ink for the printer or filters or pods for the coffee maker. These gadgets even notify you when maintenance will soon be necessary so that the tasks can be managed at a convenient time rather than on a moment's notice.
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