How wearable tech can empower your workers
Wearable tech ranges from the practical (smart watches, fitness trackers) to the fantastical.
One more extreme example of wearable tech is a Swedish co-working company who are offering implantable microchips in workers.
The chips sit under the skin and allow the user to open locks, set alarms, and enter the building’s gym. But this might seem a bit intrusive to your workers, so maybe consider using some of the below wearable tech options.
Why use wearable tech?
If you are a business owner worried about the productivity and efficiency of your staff wearable tech could help track your employees movements. However, we are not living in the world of 1984, yet.
Wearable tech is perfect for tracking your employees physical activity. It has been proven that a healthy workforce is happier and more energetic.
You can track the amount of physical activity your workers are doing. It can also tell you if they are getting enough breaks. Rest is important to a efficient workplace. Your workers can even take time to go to the biggest guide for online casinos at spinisfy.
More accessible options for wearable tech for workers include smart watches, headsets and the ever-popular fitness trackers.
Smart watches
Smart watches are one of the most practical and widely used examples of the new tech trend. They allow discreet hands free calls, a way to get urgent alerts, and on the go access to emails. Smart watches can be invaluable for task or time management, helping you look up information and check your calendar. Plus the new online payment apps – such as Apple Pay – store credit card information, streamlining hotel, travel and food payments. Voice activation means you can dictate text messages on the go, or pick pre-determined responses. You can use their built in microphone, or pair with a Bluetooth headset or earpiece.
Smart glasses
HUDs and smart glasses are still in their infancy, but the simpler models have been useful across various business sectors.
This is mainly for the future. But imagine having the ability to recognise every client and every employee just by looking at them. Their work history could spring up as soon as you meet them. You can appear to the entrepreneur in the know and the person who never forgets a face.
Virgin Atlantic’s crew have trialled Google Glass in the upper class lounge for customer service. They used it to help staff recognise and greet upper echelon flyers, by providing them with data about each passenger. Virgin engineers have also tested Sony Smartglass, in order to streamline workflow, reduce paperwork and minimise mistakes in the production process.
Safety devices
From a health and safety perspective, safety cuffs and smart caps are all used to track the whereabouts and health of the employee. This is particularly useful in lone worker or field operative situations. In the case of smart caps, they are specifically designed for truck drivers. The cap recognises the signs of impending ‘micro sleeps’ and notify the driver that it is time for a break.
Fitness trackers
Fitness trackers have become popular in work and out. The idea is a simple wristband, which monitors physical activity, calorie intake, and heart rate. The device helps users optimise and improve their personal health. Companies benefit from employee wellness in a variety of ways, ranging from reduced absenteeism to greater motivation in work.
American companies in particular have issued Fitbits to employees, with lower health insurance premiums as an incentive. Employees have reported an increase in morale, health and connection to fellow co-workers.
