How a Connected Workforce can solve Manufacturing Labour Issues

The Solution

So, what is the solution? Mobile technology provides employees with an avenue to a knowledge base when it is needed most, digitally connecting factory workers with the instructions needed to perform their roles better. This provides factory workers with the autonomy to take control of their own learning and increases collaboration within teams and departments.

A Connected Workforce may provide the answer to many of the challenges that manufacturing businesses face today.

Recruiting

Manufacturing businesses and their facilities historically have always had quite a negative perception. Noise pollution, hygiene issues and hazardous work conditions are some of the stereotypes associated with the manufacturing industry. These antiquated views can be circumnavigated by introducing a connected worker solution to potential candidates. This can support recruitment efforts by illustrating the benefits of engaging with digital tools including:

• Digital Work Instructions, SOP’s and Checklists
• Mobile Communications and Notifications
• Recognition and Rewards

Employees become an organisational priority with supports provided to maintain production.

Training

Training is a crucial component for both new hires and the current workforce. From learning operating procedures for machinery to expanding the competencies of existing employees, training is an essential component for any manufacturing company. However, outdated training channels like on the job shadowing can be ineffective and can reduce the overall productivity through the absence of employees not executing their principal responsibilities. In addition, experienced workers are susceptible to sharing their bad habits which can further affect productivity.  

A Connected Workforce platform rectify these issues by:

• Providing training supported by video learning
• Improved understanding through visual learning
• Instant access to training on the production floor
• Improving safety and quality standards

A Connected Workforce will have a “always on” repository of training available to them whenever they need it.

Retaining

Employee churn and a lack of retention is a common theme in many manufacturing environments. Factors like the lack of autonomy, banality of repetitive work procedures and inadequate support and instruction have been cited as reasons for new recruits vacating their positions. This employee churn can have a significant impact on the financial performance of a business, alongside affecting the motivation and morale of current employees. The Nvolve Connected Workforce platform can address these issues by:

• Providing employees with their own Personal Development Plan (PDP), providing clarity on their learning plan
• Motivating workers with Goals and Objective Management
• Pulse Surveys and Feedback, unlocking the ability to collaborate and share improvement ideas

Factory workers no longer want to just “clock in”. They want to learn and develop, face challenges and discover ways of overcoming them, become empowered and part of a community. In short, they want to become a Connected Workforce.