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The Future of Work: Leveraging IoT to Create a Better Employee Experience

Emma Bridger

Minutes
17 June 2024
Employee Experience
Employee Engagement
HR Tech

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In today's rapidly evolving workplace, the concept of employee experience has expanded beyond traditional parameters. Organisations are waking up to the need to treat employees as valued consumers of the workplace. The Internet of Things (IoT) is playing a key role in this transformation, put simple IoT is a network of interconnected devices that collect, send, and receive data which can help us to better understand the EX and then improve it. By leveraging IoT, companies can gain deeper insights into employee needs and preferences, optimizing the workplace environment to enhance overall EX and engagement.


What is IoT and How Does It Work?

IoT (Internet of Things) refers to physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to connect to the internet and exchange data. These devices can range from simple household items to complex industrial tools. The core components of IoT devices include:

  1. Sensors: Collect data from the environment, such as temperature, occupancy, and air quality.
  2. Connectivity: Use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, or other methods to transmit data to a central system or cloud.
  3. Data Processing: Process data locally or in the cloud to derive actionable insights.
  4. User Interface: Allow users to interact with the device or system through apps, dashboards, or other interfaces.

Benefits of IoT in the workplace

IoT devices offer numerous benefits that can transform the workplace experience:
  • Efficiency: Automate routine tasks and streamline operations. 
  • Convenience: Provide remote control and monitoring capabilities. 
  • Data Insights: Generate valuable data for analysis and decision-making. 
  • Safety and Security: Enhance monitoring and alert systems for safety. 
  • Personalisation: Customise environments based on individual preferences.

Enhancing employee experience with IoT

Organisations can use IoT to improve EX, for example:

Workspace utilisation and optimisation
Smart Desks and Chairs: Sensors embedded in desks and chairs monitor occupancy and usage patterns, allowing companies to optimise workspace layouts and create better environments.

Environmental Comfort
Smart Lighting and Climate Control: IoT devices adjust lighting and temperature in real-time based on occupancy and individual preferences, ensuring optimal comfort and reducing energy costs.

Health and Wellbeing
Wearable Devices: Fitness trackers and health stations monitor physical activity, stress levels, and overall health, enabling the design of tailored wellness programs.

Productivity and Efficiency
Smart Meeting Rooms: Sensors detect meeting room occupancy and usage patterns, optimising scheduling and ensuring rooms are equipped with necessary technology.

Safety and Security
Smart Security Systems: Cameras and sensors monitor access points and track entry and exit times, enhancing workplace security and emergency response.

Feedback and Engagement
Smart Feedback Systems: Kiosks and mobile apps collect real-time feedback from employees, allowing companies to address issues promptly and continuously improve the work environment.

Collaboration and Communication
Smart Collaboration Tools: IoT-enabled devices facilitate better communication and collaboration among remote and in-office employees, enhancing overall teamwork and productivity.

Resource Management
Smart Resource Allocation: Sensors monitor the use of office supplies and other resources, optimising inventory levels and ensuring availability without overstocking.

Here are some examples of how companies are using the IoT: 

Deloitte's Smart Building
Implementation: Deloitte's Amsterdam office, "The Edge," is equipped with IoT sensors that monitor lighting, temperature, and meeting room availability.
Outcome: The building's design and technology create a more comfortable, efficient, and productive environment for employees, reducing energy consumption by 70%.

Cisco's Smart Workplace
Implementation: Cisco's connected workplace initiative uses IoT devices to monitor space utilisation, air quality, and employee movement.
Outcome: Data collected helps Cisco optimise their workspace, improve indoor air quality, and enhance overall employee satisfaction and productivity.
The role of IoT can help to improve EX but is this something that employees feel comfortable with?
The hurry is still out on that one – what your views on this?
  • Are you using the IoT to understand your workplace experience and improve it?
  • How do you think monitoring and tracking employees in this way would go down with your workforce?

    Let us know your thoughts in our community social feed - we'd love to hear from you!