Small businesses are increasingly reliant to mobile devices. Professionals need them to access important documents, run analysis applications and conduct real time Internet research. In general, smartphones are essential for efficient and productivity. That’s why we should choose proper partners and we should be aware that not all network providers are made equal. Small businesses need to maximize their investments, keep costs down and streamline implementation. It is important to ensure our systems are up and running, while our smartphones are working. After all, enhancing revenue and productivity can be rather costly. Network providers should be experienced in working with small businesses, especially if they can provide in-house technical expertises and proper supports. In general, we need to minimize costly downtime and maximize our investments.
Here are things to consider when choosing network providers:
1. Availability of comprehensive support and in-House Services
It is important for small business to access required services when needed. Mobile network providers need to provide us with proper access for Internet support.
2. Availability of Brand-Related experts
Android, BalckBerry and iPhone are common business platforms in the mobile industry. Small business owners should make sure that the network providers could provide in-house expertises to best service, maintain and deploy our mobile technology.
3. Training for users
While using smartphone for standard uses is generally easy, business implementations can be rather complex; because they need dedicated software and specific standard operating procedures. Training is the best way to enhance data security and improve coordination between employees using smartphones. Without training, staff will likely be unaware of advanced productivity tools and features for their business requirements.
4. On Site maintenance and Repair Services
Smartphones can get damaged and systems could have specific down times. It is important for network providers to be able to repair our devices quickly and troubleshoot any system malfunction.
5. Warranty Services and Loaner Programs
Some network providers are willing to provide loaner programs for our business requirements. In this case, if our smartphone is being repaired, we would get a replacement model. However, we should be aware that a loaned smartphone may not solve our problems, because we may not still have access to our instant messaging services, email and cloud data.
6. SMS Messaging Servers
Some small businesses with more intense text-based interaction with consumers may require a dedicated SMS messaging server. This allows us to have direct connection with clients and employees, without using the provider’s standard network. It will be very easy to send new updates and coupons and promotions for clients.
7. GPS-Based Solutions
Some small businesses run vehicle fleets of specific types. It is a good way to integrate a GPS-based management solution through the network provider, so we could access information through smartphones and other mobile devices. We will know their locations and estimated time of arrival. GPS technology could also improve response time when theft or any inappropriate uses of vehicles occur.
