This blog post begins a three part series covering technology in the workplace. As both technology and the workplace sectors continue to provide innovative solutions, employees need to know what’s available and what’s coming to their offices. A recent Robert Half article provides insight into what’s trending now. We’ve highlighted two trends below, and you can read more about this exciting topic here.
Internet of Things (IoT) – Do you own a wearable device? How about a smart appliance? These concepts are gaining popularity and are arriving in the workplace. According to BI Intelligence, the number of devices connected to IoT will grow tenfold by 2019. From inventory tracking to security, IoT will bring big changes to the workplace. Below are a few examples of what an employee or business might experience with this new technology:
-A printer that senses it’s running low on ink and orders more
-A device that already knows your schedule and routes you to your meetings and appointments without entering driving directions (in a car that drives for you?)
-More automated data entry, allowing companies to give more attention to R&D
-Wearable technology that gives managers of remote teams the ability to track and improve employee performance
3D Printing – 3D printing is becoming more affordable and integrated within the workplace. This technology makes three dimensional objects via a layering process, and the opportunities for business use are endless. Employees can expect to see these machines in their offices in the future, as well as the ability for their smartphones to connect and function with the printer.
Which tech trends are you looking forward to seeing in the office? Tweet to us and let us know using the hashtag #workplacetech. Stay tuned for our next post in which we’ll discuss tech talent and the office markets that are best for tech.