Technology Magazine September 2019 | Page 56

AI

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— Stephan Billar , Vice President Watson IoT at IBM

sensors and other sources , the software solution highlights issues that workers may face such as overexposure to heat , injury from falls , or overexertion . When you visualise wearable technologies , you might think of FitBits , the personal wristwatch that measures your heart rate or the steps you ’ ve taken that day . However , it ’ s clear that wearables are making their way into the industrial sector – and they ’ re here to stay .

Yet , when data privacy has become such a hot topic in the technology space , IBM doesn ’ t underestimate the challenges that may arise from wearables and IoT . With this in mind , Billar points out how the firm has “ an iron-clad ” policy whereby it will “ never access the data unless clients ask us too ”. On top of this , IBM also encourages clients to work closely with trade unions and employees to ensure they understand the merits of the technology and that they ’ re included in the journey . Just like any technological shift , culture change is key if you want to drive innovation . Billar outlines this view , noting that ‘ software is just one piece of any digital transformation .' The most important thing is the cultural transformation that goes with it . So , how do you ensure that the people aren ’ t left behind ? How do you empower your workers and make them more productive ? “ It ’ s about creating the optimal solution for both the business process and the employee ,” explains Billar . “ Let ’ s take the example of a machine that needs to be maintained at all times . Perhaps the machine uses sensors and IoT to collect data about the temperature , for example and visualises this data . The machine may suggest three solutions the employee could take but the worker can still say yes or no to this because they usually have a lot of experience . Over time , you may want to do more

SEPTEMBER 2019