Manufacturers use drones armed with cameras and computer vision technology to spot any other issues. IoT sensors may use AI to detect sounds that signal a problem. This is all underscored by two 5G networks: a high-bandwidth local one for sensors and drones to communicate with central processing software, and a low-bandwidth, longer-range one that links the remote site back to mission control as needed. With 5G in manufacturing, organizations will employ better use of employee time and resources, reduce human site inspections, improve site inspection productivity as the problem areas are predetermined, reduce safety risks on the production floor and increase productivity.

Manufacturers invest trainer time and resources to teach new staff members in person with legacy materials and media. With many manufacturers experiencing high worker turnover rates, the high investment in training can spell a bigger loss in productivity over time as workers cycle through.

One of 5G's greatest promises is low end-to-end latency -- down to 1 millisecond -- which creates the opportunity for new ways to train employees via augmented and virtual reality. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) can show step-by-step training procedures in real-time. Trainees perform actions in field-of-view and can see if they need to change what they are doing along the way to customize or avoid an error. A high-speed, low-latency 5G connection links the AR and VR headset to high-performance computing located at the edge of the network. This ensures there is no lag as the employee moves. Manufacturers will have a shorter initial training time, increased procedural accuracy, more efficient switching between jobs, increased customization, reduced accidents and increased performance monitoring.