Why early adoption of 5G for business is crucial

The faster speeds, quicker download times, and low latency that 5G provides are proving to be a game changer for businesses who traditionally opt for broadband. With the government announcing reforms that will enable a quicker 5G rollout, it is imperative that businesses understand how the technology will benefit them and start adopting it now to keep ahead of competitors. Businesses that utilise internet-of-things (IOT) devices or maintain extensive branch operations are those that will see the most benefits with 5G adoption. 

The newest generation of 5G has now reached the point where it is as fast, if not faster, than most traditional broadband networks. Providing businesses with more bandwidth allows them to share data seamlessly (usually through cloud-based applications), optimising operations for employees and end-users. A report found that 60% of early adopters say that 5G has helped realise higher operational efficiency, resulting from the increased flexibility, reliability and data security that it provides.

Wireless wide area network’s (WAN) also allows businesses to utilise 4G LTE and 5G technology while keeping their workforce agile – which is imperative in the new hybrid working era. With research showing that 51% of UK workers would consider leaving their company if hybrid working was axed. Providing the option to ‘work from anywhere’ will not only help a business retain (and attract) talent but will also increase employee satisfaction and well-being. Centralised, cloud-based management allow IT teams to remotely manage hundreds or thousands of remote workers or sites under a single pane of glass.

5G technology will allow employees to collaborate more seamlessly with colleagues across various locations – this is crucial for project management within industries such as construction, where tasks follow a critical path. In sectors such as retail and hospitality, 5G for business is transforming operations by facilitating flexible dispersed networks, pop-up stores, digital displays, and a more interactive user experience.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of IOT technologies and applications as organisations sought to provide a contactless experience so that consumers felt safe at physical locations. Examples of this include QR codes to replace menus, temperature sensors, queue counting, self-checkout lanes, and contactless payments. However, as businesses embrace new and evolving IOT technologies, it is crucial that their network connectivity remains stable and reliable.

IOT devices provide real-time insights into business operations and customer behaviours. Enabling businesses to improve customer experiences based on how they use their products or services. In addition, richer data collection can lead to increased productivity through automation. For example, IOT devices can monitor equipment around-the-clock and predict equipment failure; enabling businesses to create optimised maintenance schedules with minimum impact on production lines. IOT devices have also revolutionised the construction industry. By providing workers with wearable technologies it has allowed businesses to work more efficiently while improving health and safety standards. Healthcare is also another sector that is increasingly adopting IOT technologies.

The security and flexibility offered by 5G has made it a key factor in facilitating IOT devices, and allows businesses to confidently invest in connected IOT devices. When working in tandem with 5G, IOT can revolutionise ways of working. For example, 5G enabled IOT devices will reduce the number of staff needed on-site at any given time as monitoring and surveillance can be conducted more remotely, allowing businesses and employees to be more agile. It also allows employees across various shifts and divisions to collaborate seamlessly and adapt quickly to any challenges as they will have access to a greater depth of data.

IOT can create a seamless end-user experience which will optimise enterprise success and 5G provides the low latency and additional security needed to make these functions possible. While 5G can provide many benefits to businesses, early adoption is crucial. With 56% of businesses planning to invest in 5G over the next one to three years, this is a critical time for decision-makers to understand how the new technologies will benefit them to ensure that they don’t fall behind the competition.