The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased demand for connected worker solutions according to new studies from independent research firm Verdantix.
Faced with new risks to manage, firms have turned to connected worker solutions that enhance COVID-19 workplace track-and-trace initiatives and enable remote assistance with augmented reality (AR) technology. Year-on-year growth rates for connected worker solutions now range from 30% to 200%.
“When we surveyed 102 buyers of industrial wearables in 2019 only 6% planned to increase spending by 10% or more” commented Hugo Fuller, Verdantix analyst.
“COVID-19 has transformed this picture. Demand has soared for connected worker solutions which enhance corporate track-and-trace systems and also for AR solutions which minimize the need for technical experts to travel to industrial sites,” Fuller added. “Last year many execs viewed AR as sci-fi kit. Now they’re bowled over by productivity improvements and reduced travel bills.”
Key findings of the two Verdantix reports on Augmented Reality Solutions for Remote Assistance and Connected Worker Solutions for Health & Safety:
- Augmented reality solutions for industrial customers have demonstrated value for inspections, just in time learning, maintenance repairs and equipment servicing.
- Holistic connected worker solutions enable customers to use the same platform for vital signs checking, motion monitoring, location tracking and environmental hazard tests.
- Recent innovations include voice-activated controls, connectivity with AR visors and smart PPE, predictive analytics, offline data capture and training tools.