What's Happening?
Damien Durston, Head of People Management Solutions at OneAdvanced ANZ, emphasizes the importance of workforce visibility in the manufacturing sector. Facing challenges such as skill shortages, rising costs, and volatile demand, Durston argues that understanding workforce dynamics is crucial for maintaining productivity and quality. He highlights that while machinery upgrades have traditionally driven productivity, the focus should now shift to workforce visibility. This approach allows leaders to make informed decisions about coverage, fatigue, and compliance, reducing reliance on manual processes that can lead to errors and inefficiencies. Durston also points out the risks associated with wage underpayments and overpayments, stressing the need for compliance embedded in scheduling systems.
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Why It's Important?
The emphasis on workforce visibility is significant as it addresses critical issues in the manufacturing sector, such as productivity pressures and compliance challenges. By leveraging workforce intelligence, companies can optimize their operations, safeguard employee wellbeing, and enhance morale and retention. This approach not only prevents compliance breaches but also supports balanced workloads and skill development among staff. As manufacturing spans multiple sites and time zones, a consolidated platform for workforce management becomes essential. Durston's insights suggest that companies investing in workforce visibility can achieve rapid returns on investment, thereby strengthening their competitive edge in a challenging economic environment.
What's Next?
Durston predicts that workforce visibility will become a necessity in the manufacturing sector, distinguishing leaders from laggards. Companies that adopt these systems will be better positioned to make evidence-based decisions, optimize their workforce, and protect margins. As labor shortages and supply chain disruptions persist, embracing new technology and innovation will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness. Durston encourages businesses to overcome fears of disruption and leverage workforce visibility to enhance productivity and resilience.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift towards workforce visibility highlights broader implications for the manufacturing industry, including ethical considerations around wage compliance and employee wellbeing. By prioritizing workforce management, companies can foster a culture of transparency and accountability, potentially influencing industry standards and practices. This development also underscores the evolving role of technology in human resource management, paving the way for more integrated and intelligent systems.
