3 Reasons Why It’s Time to Evaluate Your Technology

Are you feeling the constant push to move forward with technology?  The age of the computer started it all off, but the smartphone really kicked it into gear.  With constant software upgrades and the fast pace of technology in general, it leaves us wondering if what we’ve got is really good enough.

In this blog we address concerns many users have regarding their industrial mobile devices; specifically, how to get started, what is gained by migrating and how to do it without disrupting the normal course of business.

How old is ‘too old’?

You’ve probably heard by now about Microsoft and their decision to move away from Windows® Embedded Handheld, as well the decision from voice and data carrier Verizon to de-activate their 3G network in favor of 4G LTE.  If you haven’t, you can read more about it in our blogs.

That said, if you’ve been using the same devices for the last 5+ years, it’s time to begin evaluating newer technology that can accommodate the needs of the business. Here are a few reasons why:

• Service & Support – If you’re running Windows Mobile, you will no longer be receiving security patches and regular updates needed to keep your device and data safe.
• Data & Voice Connectivity – If you’re operating on a 3G Verizon network (other carriers are expected to follow) you will need a device that can operate on a 4G LTE network when 3G is no longer available (In 2020).
• Bandwidth & Application Flexibility – Application development is much easier with an Android™ OS due to the nature of the open platform environment. This takes the burden off IT for new application requirements.

Taking Mobile Device Versatility to the Next Level

From asset tracking and inventory management to shipping and receiving, the days of being tethered to a workstation are a thing of the past.  Workers want and need to be mobile, and studies have shown mobile workers are more productive and less error prone than those who are using devices that require them to travel back and forth to a desk.

For example, consider a material handling operator’s daily workflow.  Just the motion of repeatedly getting on and off a forklift can decrease productivity levels.  With a vehicle-mount industrial mobile computer, the operator has the flexibility to access desktop applications right from the vehicle, without having to repeatedly get on and off the truck.  Warehouses that implement vehicle-mount computers see dramatic increases in worker productivity for material handling applications.

The Next Step: Planning Your Strategy

Migrating to next generation mobile devices can be a process, indeed.  You do not want to go it alone.  Working with an experienced solution provider, like TDS,  is the smartest approach, and you leverage their knowledge of previous technology upgrade projects.  They can guide you on how to properly prepare for a technology upgrade, including how to budget, based on your immediate (and future) needs.

The good news is that with newer technology, you’ll be opening the door to innovative and time-saving ways to automate manual processes, both inside and outside the four walls.  In addition, many of today’s mobile computing devices offer both Android and Windows platforms.  This means you can migrate on your own terms, at your own pace, to accommodate any budgetary or resource constraints you may have.  Read more about the advantages of Android OS in our previous blog.

Ready to take that first step?

We have the expertise you need to get started on the right foot. Contact us today to set up an introductory call and start working toward improving processes, building stronger workflow processes and increasing productivity.