What Is a Connected Worker Platform?

A connected worker platform is software that connects frontline employees with the information, systems, equipment, and support they need to perform work correctly in real time. In manufacturing, it can bring machine status, job details, work instructions, quality checks, communications, and ERP data to the workcenter. The goal is to reduce manual handoffs, improve consistency, and make production activity easier to see and manage.

It helps manufacturers replace fragmented, paper-based, and manual processes with guided digital workflows. Operators can receive the correct instructions and program information, while supervisors gain visibility into machine activity, labor, quality, downtime, and job progress. This reduces time spent searching for information or walking for support, helps prevent revision and setup errors, and enables teams to address bottlenecks before they affect completed production.

An MES typically manages and tracks manufacturing execution processes, while a connected worker platform focuses on improving how people, machines, and systems work together at the point of execution. Harmoni operates as a factory orchestration layer between ERP, MES, equipment, and operators. It adds real-time operational context, machine-side guidance, RFID-driven identification, communications, and workflow automation that can enhance existing MES and ERP investments.

Yes. Harmoni provides native integrations with Epicor, Infor and Infor Visual, ECI JobBoss and JobBoss2, ABAS, and ODOO, with custom options available for legacy and on-premise ERPs. The platform can automatically push labor records, machine production time, scrap, and quality data into the ERP. This reduces manual entry and supports more accurate job costing, capacity planning, and reporting.

Harmoni is designed to connect with existing equipment rather than require machine replacement. It supports major CNC controls and equipment from Mazak, Haas, Fanuc, Heidenhain, Siemens, DMG MORI, Makino, and Fadal. Where available, it uses MTConnect; adapter layers can support older controls. The platform collects live machine information to support monitoring, OEE, downtime tracking, and connected workcenter workflows.

Digital work instructions deliver the appropriate setup sheets, engineering drawings, SOPs, and instructions to the operator for the active job and part revision. By replacing printed packets and disconnected files, they reduce the chance of using outdated documentation or following the wrong process. They also support a traceable documentation approach for quality programs such as ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, and ISO 13485.

RFID can automatically identify the operator and job near a machine without requiring badge swipes or keyboard entry. Harmoni uses long-range RFID to connect that identification with the correct program, instructions, and labor record. This creates a smoother workcenter experience, reduces administrative tasks, supports automatic time tracking, and improves the accuracy of labor information sent to connected ERP systems.

Yes. Harmoni offers multi-factor authentication at the machine for sensitive jobs, controlled technical data, ITAR-restricted programs, and customer-restricted work. It records audit details showing who accessed a machine, program, and time. These controls can support DFARS-aligned cybersecurity practices and CMMC access-management requirements for DoD contractors. A Government Cloud deployment option is also available for organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information.