Intelligent helpers: IoT solutions for skilled workers

They monitor monotonous process steps, take over preventative device maintenance, or increase occupational safety as warning systems: IoT solutions. Are they also the answer to the shortage of skilled labour?

In the morning on the motorway, in the middle of rush-hour traffic, the warning light on the dashboard suddenly flashes: There's a problem with the braking system. The need for urgent action is clear, but the nearest garage is far away, troubleshooting is a time-consuming process, and the car mechanic is fully booked for the next two working days.

The shortage of skilled labour is a cross-industry challenge and naturally also affects the automotive industry. Companies must find ways to continue to complete their tasks efficiently and economically – with limited personnel. The Internet of Things (IoT) offers an effective lever. Networked devices and intelligent systems can automate repetitive tasks, perform maintenance remotely, and transmit important process data to employees. This not only relieves the burden on staff but also streamlines work processes. Here are some examples.

SELECT AG allows its customers to connect vehicles so mechanics can help quickly in scenarios such as defective brake systems. The collected data is transferred to an IoT platform developed by Deutsche Telekom and analysed in the cloud. Independent garages can then read the vehicle data securely. This predictive maintenance makes it possible to procure necessary spare parts in good time, offer a faster service, and minimise downtimes. This is because mechanics can note upcoming inspections and check-ups when scheduling their appointments and save valuable time when troubleshooting, thanks to the vehicle data.

Whether in the hotel industry, canteens or system catering: MKN leverages IoT to prepare menus simultaneously and with precise accuracy. The provider from Wolfenbüttel in Lower Saxony equips professional chefs worldwide with kitchen appliances such as combi-steamers – a mixture of convection ovens and steamers. These are networked with Deutsche Telekom's IoT cloud, allowing cooking programmes to be triggered centrally and dishes to be prepared with consistent quality at the touch of a button. In addition, the automatically stored usage data allows the appliances to be maintained proactively and comply with the demanding food hygiene requirements.

Thanks to networked formwork elements, PERI SE scaffolding and formwork experts always maintain their bearings, even on large construction sites such as Frankfurt Airport. Telekom's Low Cost Tracker and the IoT solution from Telekom partner Syfit combine to allow construction site workers to easily locate the required elements on the extensive site via a smartphone app. At the same time, PERI employees can keep an eye on their stock levels and have the required parts delivered more quickly.

As part of the Rethmann Group, REMONDIS and Rhenus use IoT fill-level meters for their waste management logistics. These meters use lasers to measure the fill level of glass containers and data bins. This enables employees to conveniently check the position and fill level of the containers via a web portal and plan their collection journeys according to their needs. This saves valuable working time as well as CO2 emissions from the collection vehicles.

There is potential to reduce the workload of employees in logistics, in particular. Paper-based processes, a lack of transparency, and high communication costs slow down logistics workflows in many places. The IoT offers great potential for optimising these processes. Networked scanners, smart glasses, freight tracking, and smart route planning are just some of the solutions for improving inefficient processes. The full-service provider Quehenberger Logistics, the logistics company DM-Services, and the family-owned company Fiege Logistik show how businesses can use digital solutions to optimise their logistics processes, ensure greater transparency, and provide smart support for their specialists. Feel free to download the free e-book here.

The practical examples in this article and the e-book show how the Internet of Things can support small and large companies from a wide range of industries with completely different requirements in achieving their goals. Deutsche Telekom offers companies worldwide IoT connectivity and innovative IoT solutions from a single source – not only to optimise current business processes and enable new business models, but also to relieve the burden on employees and thus counter the shortage of skilled workers.