The business challenges that we hear most often from enterprise clients are:

Where's the ROI?: "We know mobile IT is in our future, but where are the success stories, the role models? ... Where is the ROI?"   Technology Confusion: "There are so many competing devices and networks, and more on the way ... which one(s) are best for us?"   'Mystery Boxes': "We are reluctant to make big investments right now (in time or $$) to install some wireless 'mystery box' inside our firewall"   Burned: "We've used outside wireless developers before, and frankly, it hasn't been a good experience"

Do you agree, or do you have other challenges? We would to hear your thoughts on this - please tell us!

Solutions

Formulating an IT strategy for wireless has challenges unlike any other IT sector - there are few clear emerging standards, there are many competing technologies at all levels, and the rate of change is almost unprecedented.

We recommend that enterprises take advantage of the information resources offered by device manufacturers and network providers, but obviously we also feel enterprises are well-advised to engage the consultation of independent experts like Outr.Net.

Example: A financial information provider asked Outr.Net to investigate the network and device options for clientele in a geographically remote area. Outr.Net researched the area, and generated cost estimates for dedicated systems that could be installed. However, through internal contacts at network providers, Outr.Net also determined that a conventional nationwide service was forthcoming and was probably worth waiting for.

We believe that there are clear ROI opportunities today for almost every enterprise, and that the key is develop information mobility strategies for the long term, but to plan that any decisions on specific technologies will change over time. In other words, plan for change, but having done so, there's no reason not to start reaping the rewards as soon as possible.

In many cases, a simple custom application (which perhaps interfaces with company email systems or intranet websites) is a good first step - it allows the enterprise to familiarize itself with the technologies and quickly see benefits, without a major investment in time or $$.

Example: A nationwide network provider directed a client with a field service challenge to Outr.Net. The client ordered their application using the 'building blocks' of Outr.Net's Overnight AppsTM. Outr.Net developed the custom application virtually 'overnight' for just $995, and the client's field force has been using it ever since to track the movement of equipment in the field.

Of course, once any project is underway, it's all about executing - arriving at real-world, maintenance-free solutions as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Example: Outr.Net has developed custom solutions for dispatch operations for a variety of clients, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. The ROI factors include higher efficiency of the mobile workforce, elimination of redundant work (and elimination of paper forms), better tracking of capital assets, and reduced losses through mis-communications.

In a well-executed wireless strategy, the costs of devices and airtime are often not a significant part of the big picture of overall costs and benefits. There are a number of other resources on this website that may provide further insights for your enterprise.