Intel announces updates to its Recon Jet Smart Glass for connected workers at the Enterprise Wearable Technology Summit. When we think about the ways in which technology is transforming the enterprise, the use of wearables may not immediately come to mind. Often associated with consumer applications, such as smartwatches and fitness devices, the benefits of wearables in the workplace are only starting to gain recognition. These compact devices have the potential to positively impact industries in multiple ways, replacing the practice of making decisions by “clipboard and gut” with access to critical real-time information and data, whether workers are in the facility or out in the field.
With improvements in efficiency, ergonomics and wearability, a perception change is coming. Already companies are beginning to reap the benefits of wearables, including productivity gains, improved worker safety, error elimination and reduced training costs. Furthermore, enterprise wearables can be used to address longer-term challenges, such as preventing worker fatigue, managing inexperienced workforces and incentivizing performance. In these ways, wearables can reach from the manufacturing line to the bottom line to help improve the overall working environment. With a focus on design, new products have also improved to the point where they can be worn all day on the job without discomfort.
