Developing mobile data solutions

The challenges of developing a mobile data solution

Mobile data technology is already in operation in a range of sectors including taxi services, community transport, courier companies and international haulage - and undoubtedly has further potential applications. But, in a world where technology is constantly evolving the development of a mobile data solution needs careful attention, its introduction bringing with it a range of challenges and problems for those without the benefit of specialist knowledge. For any organisation looking to install new mobile technology, it is worth considering the following potential pitfalls.

Network and applications issues: integrating mobile data technology is a very complex task to be undertaken by someone who is not a specialist in the technology. Software has to be written for both the mobile handset and the existing office or control centre-based programs to ensure the system works as efficiently as possible. Complex server set up, configuration and maintenance needs to be factored in too. If any individual area of the network is not operating correctly, problems will soon surface.

Research and development: a company looking to move into mobile data technology will need to look carefully at what is available in the marketplace and develop a system that fits perfectly its own operating requirements. The cost involved in such research is certain to be an issue, particularly where mobile data technology is far removed from an organisations core business. Investigation and planning needs to be done to ensure that the new technology will support the needs of the organisation and be smoothly integrated into existing operating systems, and this level of research may well be out of the comfort zone of many non-specialist developers.

Rapidly evolving systems - mobile data technology is a constantly changing and diverse environment and it is important that any organisation looking to move towards its introduction be up to date with the latest developments. There is a plethora of new and old operating systems available for both mobile and office PCs, server applications, a constantly changing catalogue of devices, and the hardware accessories that come with each change. All have to be taken into consideration when maintaining a mobile data service.

Implementation - when the above challenges have been overcome and an organisation finds itself ready to move ahead with a new system, the setting up of the actual infrastructure still awaits. Before the new system can be launched, there will be delivery of a batch of handsets that have to be programmed and tested. Each one will need to be integrated and enabled to send and receive the messages that will form the basis of the system. After that, users at all levels of the communications process, from control centre staff to mobile workers, will have to be trained to use the new technology to ensure smooth implementation. Periodical updates to operating systems will also be necessary.

Volume device management - once delivered and installed, it is vital that an inventory is drawn up of all handsets. Critical information including device serial numbers, SIM card details, and details of software versions installed must be logged. Without this information, cross-referencing who has got what can quickly prove to be an administrative nightmare.

In Part Two of this article, in the March newsletter, we will be looking at how Alamein has helped organisations overcome these challenges, and allowed them to quickly embrace the benefits that a mobile data service brings.