What's Happening?
Damien Durston, Head of People Management Solutions at OneAdvanced ANZ, emphasizes the importance of workforce visibility in addressing the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). With skill shortages, rising costs, and volatile demand, manufacturers are under pressure to increase productivity with limited resources. Durston argues 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 staffing, compliance, and safety, reducing reliance on manual processes that can lead to errors and inefficiencies. Durston highlights that workforce visibility not only ensures compliance with workplace laws but also enhances staff wellbeing by identifying workload imbalances and preventing burnout.
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Why It's Important?
The emphasis on workforce visibility is crucial for the manufacturing sector, which is grappling with labor shortages and economic pressures. By leveraging technology to track and manage workforce activities, companies can optimize productivity and maintain compliance with labor laws, thus avoiding costly penalties. This approach also supports employee morale and retention by ensuring fair distribution of work and development opportunities. As the manufacturing industry faces increasing competition and supply chain disruptions, adopting workforce visibility solutions can provide a competitive edge, enabling companies to make data-driven decisions that protect margins and enhance resilience.
What's Next?
Durston predicts that workforce visibility will become essential for manufacturing companies in ANZ, distinguishing industry leaders from laggards. As businesses recognize the tangible benefits of these systems, there may be increased investment in technology that enhances workforce management. Companies that embrace these solutions are likely to see quick returns on investment, as evidenced by a major construction firm achieving payback within 13 months. The shift towards workforce visibility is expected to continue, with companies seeking to optimize both human and machine resources to remain competitive in a challenging market.
Beyond the Headlines
The adoption of workforce visibility systems raises important considerations about the balance between technology and human labor. While these systems can enhance efficiency and safety, they also require careful implementation to avoid potential disruptions. Companies must navigate change management processes to ensure successful integration and acceptance by employees. Additionally, the focus on workforce visibility highlights the broader trend of digital transformation in industries traditionally reliant on manual processes, signaling a shift towards more data-driven and automated operations.
