The Augmented Connected Workforce
The augmented connected workforce combines technologies including augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), computer vision, IoT, AI, digital twins and robotics to increase workplace productivity. Proponents say it will boost employees' capabilities, improve collaboration, enhance training, and increase safety and accessibility by blending human and digital skills.
The augmented connected workforce has recently been in the spotlight with the release of VR devices such as Apple's Vision Pro headset.
As a concept, the augmented connected workforce is not particularly well-defined. Nevertheless, 20 percent of our respondents said they already have use cases in play, with a further 22 percent investigating.
The primary driver was "creating a more efficient, collaborative and adaptable workplace" (mentioned by 56 percent) followed by the potential from "blending human and digital skills" (44 percent).
The main use cases mentioned were connecting remote work environments; training and skill development; and creating a more efficient, collaborative and adaptable workplace.
A sample of the specific use cases mentioned by our respondents are detailed below.
What are you doing / looking to do with augmented connected workforce solutions?
- Build into either service design and/or supporting customer support
- Provide on-the-job guidance and instructions through AR overlays
- Create interactive training simulations that mimic real-world scenarios
- Enable remote assistance from experts through live video and AR annotations
- Help boost productivity and efficiency in facilitating access to critical information and hands-free documents
- Optimize workflows with real-time data and performance insights
- Automate repetitive tasks and manual data collection
- Enhance safety and compliance
- Improve training, reduce costs
- Solutions aligned with customer verticals
- Training and education to improve performance
- Have a seamless integration and work from anywhere capabilities
