We might think of cellular wireless networks as just means of communication for consumers. But with 5G, the “new kid on the block,” workplace capabilities abound.

It may take several years for the rollout of 5G to complete, but for markets where it is now available, the speed of internet connection and ability to collect larger amounts of data will happen sooner.

Some industry insiders have said that the 5G network “will be as revolutionary as the automobile and electricity.”

Proponents say that equipment will be able to detect problems before they occur, which will reduce downtime and lost productivity for workers. The technology could monitor inventory, as well as provide other methods to increase productivity. Some analysts believe 2020 will see the 5G technology gain traction since countries like China, the United States, Japan, and South Korea are already building infrastructures to become 5G ready.

Those who disagree with the importance of 5G technology cite security as a major problem, citing more file transfers and more connected devices mean more opportunities for hackers to interfere. Safeguards will be necessary before 5G becomes a valuable asset to business.

Many technology and business execs are skeptical about what 5G can do. AT&T is already providing education to its customers through several avenues, including educating them on the technology behind 5G and how it is changing the business landscape and applications for 5G within various industries.

Another source states that 5G will enable a new era of connecting machines, with the value of these connections being in the data interchanges between them.

New NLRB Ruling Puts Restrictions on Employees

A Dec., 2019 National Labor Relations Board ruling restricts employees right to use their employers’ email systems or any other IT resources for NLRA purposes, such as union organizing.

The Board held that there is no statutory right in the typical workplace for employees to use employer-provided email for their own purposes. An employer has the right to control the use of its communications systems, including company email. Employers may now publish this policy.

Marijuana Use Up within the Workforce

More members of the workforce are testing positive for marijuana with a 2.6% increase in the general workforce in 2017.

In 2018, tests by Quest Diagnostics showed that 5.1% of the general workforce tested positive for the drug. States that have legalized recreational use of marijuana have seen the biggest uptick.

As a result of this rise, along with the low unemployment rate, some companies no longer test or test infrequently. Zero tolerance is no longer the norm when it comes to “weed.”

Emerging Trends

• Millenials seek work-life integration vs work-life balance. They want careers that allow work & life to co-exist & even blend together at times. Mobile plays a big role in this by allowing employees to always be connected to work.
• Implement and communicate a solid social media policy. Create an online training course to outline the specifics of your company’s social media usage rules.

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