"Blackberry enters Wi-Fi game"
I recently saw this headline in Network World magazine (a technology trade magazine). Translated for us non-techies, this means that RIM has introduced a new BlackBerry, the 8820, which is their first dual-mode device with Wi-Fi wireless LAN connectivity and built-in GPS access (and a whole host of other cool features). The bottom line: BlackBerry users can connect to the Internet much faster wherever there is a Wi-Fi connection.
Why does this matter, I wondered?
Keith Shaw, the writer, explained how the addition of Wi-Fi makes the device more powerful than ever before. "BlackBerries are often thought of as 'just a wireless e-mail device and a cell phone'", he writes. "While the device handles these features extremely well, the lack of speedy Internet access often leaves users wanting something more--like an iPhone, for example." He added that "enterprise users who could use the additional boost of Wi-Fi for faster e-mail downloads and corporate network access should be happy with the 8820."
But wait, there is more.
While these are nice "technical" features, I want to share several "business benefits" that that could make a PDA/cell phone with Wi-Fi capability a worthwhile investment for business owners:
1) Enabling warehouse personnel with PDA/cell phones to connect to the company VoIP phone system through Wi-Fi in the warehouse. The benefits? No cellular charges for calls forwarded to the cell phone from the desk phone. And, workers are free to walk away from their desks and work hands-free with a headset but still be able to answer calls and handle communication needs.
2) Using the PDA/cell phone (a hand held) device as a bar-code scanner. It could scan and capture inventory information or pick-lists and wirelessly (via Wi-Fi) update the shipping, receiving and inventory database in real time.
3) Reducing cell phone bills for sales reps that travel extensively or work from home offices. If calls are automatically routed through the FREE Wi-Fi network, businesses might find their cell phone bills dropping dramatically because the cell phone carrier backbone is used less. Disclaimer: this scenario has yet to be proven worthwhile.
4) Enabling productivity through the use of instant messaging and text messaging, which are free over Wi-Fi.
5) Using PDAs to manage the corporate network and systems. This could help IT staff save time, by eliminating the need to boot-up a desktop while on the road to handle computer and network problems.
Higher-speed Wi-Fi delivers better connectivity, performance and access to get the job done.
How do you think your business could benefit from this new technology? I'd like to hear your ideas.
Scott