The impact of AI on today's frontline workers, and what comes next

In physical operations, we spend a lot of time thinking about how to keep frontline workers safe. For example, at EVO Transportation-where I lead Continuous Improvement-when a driver is on-site at one of our facilities, we can supervise their work, train them on our processes, and coach safe behaviors.

However, most of the workers at our organization spend much of the day, eight hours or more, operating outside of our direct supervision. How can we ensure that workers continue being safe when they're in the field?

This question was top of mind for Samsara CEO and co-founder, Sanjit Biswas, during a recent panel discussion hosted by the Harvard Business Review. Sanjit pointed out that technology-particularly AI-is an important driving force in not only helping to make frontline workers safer, but also helping them feel more engaged and valued at work, both today and in the future. You can watch the full panel here.

From my vantage point, AI-based advancements in real-time hazard detection are already allowing us to take safety efforts to the next level. Now, we can use AI Dash Cams to deliver immediate coaching and driver alerts to address risky behavior. This helps drivers avoid dangerous situations on the road in real time.

Moreover, AI can identify each driver's unique strengths and areas for improvement. We can tailor training and feedback to individual drivers, and over time, provide a consistent, personalized approach that can lead to lasting behavioral change.

Looking ahead, I believe the potential for AI is incredible. It will continue to play a key role in refining driver skills and enhancing safety on the road. I also see a future where AI proactively alerts our drivers to road hazards ahead, or even warns of other driver's unsafe behaviors.

If you want to learn more about what Samsara is doing now to help drive AI innovation, you can read about Samsara Intelligence, a new suite of offerings designed to help organizations make smarter decisions and run safer, more efficient operations.