Smart technology (also known as ‘internet of things’ or ‘IoT’) is a means of connecting various devices and machines using the internet. Back in the 90s, personal computers were the only everyday devices that were connected to the internet. Nowadays, mobile phones and TVs and heating systems and cars are all connected to the internet. This allows all of these devices to interact with one another.
In business, such technology can be very useful. Below are just some of the ways in which businesses can benefit from smart tech.
Provide remote security
Smart tech can be a great way to protect workplaces against intruders. Using smart security cameras, business owners can monitor their workplace remotely via an app on their phone from any location. Smart alarms can meanwhile trigger a phone alert so that business owners can quickly respond - such alarms can be fitted to windows or doors.
Monitor employee performance
There are many ways to use smart tech to monitor performance of employees. Smart security cameras can also be used to monitor employees remotely and pick up on mistakes. Meanwhile, devices like smart POS displays can record individual employee sales, which could be used to determine how fast an employee is serving customers.
Speed up team communication
You can also use smart technology to improve communication within your team. Aside from the obvious use of smartphones, there are other technologies that can speed up communication such as kitchen display systems in restaurants - waiting staff can take orders on a tablet which are then instantly relayed to a screen in the kitchen so that chefs can start preparing the order.
Improve phone call handling
Smart VoIP phone systems allow calls to be received via the internet. These phone systems have many advantages including the ability to track information on calls that can be monitored on other devices. VoIP phone calls can also be received on a variety of devices from smartphones to tablets to in-car audio systems, so that employees can pick up calls wherever they are.
Reduce energy consumption
Technologies such as smart HVAC can be useful in workplaces as it can allow business owners to monitor their energy consumption on another device. Heating and cooling can also be controlled remotely to ensure that it’s never accidentally left on when no-one is in the office.
Detect machinery faults
Using building automation and control systems, it’s also possible to monitor the condition of various types of machinery. Heating systems and appliances like fridges can be monitored to ensure that they are working properly - faults can be detected early and repairs can be made before problems get serious. In factories, such technology can be particularly useful for making sure that machinery is all in good working order, reducing the need for manual inspections.
Track company vehicles
Smart technology can also be used to track the location, fuel efficiency and condition of company vehicles. Business owners with large fleets of vehicles can not only keep track of all their drivers, but monitor fuel consumption to see improvements can be made, as well as spotting faults early.
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