The IoT for field services is here to stay
Traditionally, businesses dedicated to offering field services went into action after an incident occurred (minor breakdowns, serious faults, etc.). The arrival of the IoT (Internet of Things) to the Field Services sector is becoming a revolution: it completely changes the nature of the service offered (from reactive to proactive) and generates new business opportunities.
In this article in our blog, we shall try to bring a bit more light to bear on this topic
Sensors, the spearhead of the IoT for Field Services
Increasingly more machines and devices (from industrial machinery to items in our domestic sphere, such as air conditioning) are becoming smarter; we now know their condition all the time.
Technological advances allow us to add smart sensors that transmit information in real time on the operation of the devices and on the state of their key components.
The volume of data generated thanks to these sensors is very valuable: that information can be easily compared with ideal values and, in the case of any deviation, it is easier for companies offering Field Services to act quickly to prevent more serious situations (for example, the complete shutdown of a machine).
Benefits of the IoT for Field Service Management businesses
Field Service Management businesses that are committed to the IoT (Internet of Things) when offering their services can benefit from the following advantages:
- Increased productivity of customers’ machinery. Monitoring the status of machines by means of smart sensors makes it possible to monitor compliance with target parameters and helps to keep the machinery in good order. Detecting deviations in real time makes it possible to intervene in time, thus reducing stoppage time to a minimum.
- Remote controlled machinery. It will no longer be necessary to physically visit the machine to perform routine checks. Technicians will carry out these operations from a control centre and only travel to the location of the machine when necessary. Note: Cisco asserts that by 2020, there will be 50,000 million connected objects.
- Field Services are more predictive and proactive. The sensors built into the machines monitor them continuously. Therefore, it is easier to predict possible incidents before they occur. As a result, it is easier to organise and plan servicing and maintenance.
- Increased competitiveness. Field Service businesses can optimise their performance, and even develop remote diagnostic solutions for their customers. Thanks to this, they can reduce the number of errors or failures caused by humans.
- Instant and detailed information for customers. The sensors send data that can be used to prepare reports and lists almost instantly so that they can be quickly forwarded to the customer. This is a significant improvement in efficiency and brand image for customers and also makes it easier to bill any services provided.
At Task4Work, we would like you to discover how field service businesses can benefit from these advantages and provide their customers with greater value.
Let’s talk about it! Contact us!
