Digitization of industrial labor: concrete, tangible, and effective

Disruptive innovations like the multifaceted forms of digitization are progressively affecting all areas of society. Digitization has also prompted many changes to industrial workplaces and will continue to do so as the digital transformation is accelerating steadily and dynamically.

Technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics allow us to complete a multitude of tasks in a faster, more precise, and more cost-effective manner. Over the years, this prompts changes to work processes and expectations of employees and employers alike. Digitization creates new opportunities, but also goes along with challenges. However, companies can foster steady growth and achieve sustained success with a carefully planned approach and the right tools.

When we hear the term digitization of work, most of us think of office work, new software, or IT departments. Those are certainly aspects in this setting, but digitization also offers new perspectives when it comes to physical industry-related jobs. Many physically demanding jobs and potentially dangerous tasks can be supported by machines or even delegated fully thanks to the use of exoskeletons, robots, and other automated systems.

This eases physical workloads significantly and protects the respective employees against potential long-lasting effects, minor work accidents and other risks. These tools can also help compensate for common types of human error. Learn about tasks that can benefit from this type of support and find out how this promotes a healthier and more sustainable working environment in our article on exoskeletons.

Digitization processes in the application of exoskeletons can also support lasting work process optimization in other ways. When used as a platform for the integration of sensors, artificial intelligence, or other electronic equipment, they can collect useful data. This provides insights into workplace stress of employees as the analysis of data makes it possible to reduce particularly strenuous tasks, increase workplace safety, and protect health.

What’s more, data visualization can also help measure and improve the effectiveness of exoskeletons. This allows companies to optimize the performance of their exoskeletons continuously to meet their needs. In summary, the digitization of industrial labor improves working conditions, increases safety, and boosts efficiency.

Some of these technologies are still in their infancy and will continue to unleash their potential in the future. This could simplify new employee training. Artificial intelligence could also adapt the digital support options to fit individual employees, or the collected data could identify new workplace design options and ways to increase efficiency we couldn’t even think of today.

Companies that strive to be on the cutting edge – or even stay ahead of the curve – should thus view digitization as a great opportunity. In an increasingly digital world, companies that make effective use of digital technologies have an advantage and stand a better chance at long-term success. One thing is certain: In the future, digitization will continue to make its way through different working environments. That’s why A+A always stays on top of the latest trends and developments: