This approach leads to a logical starting point in terms of cost-effectiveness, scalability, training and measurable results. One possible answer might be departments that frequently work together and those that require mobility within the building. In that case, a wireless LAN would ease communication by allowing users to pick up their laptops and move about while remaining connected to the network and the Web. Another solution might be aimed at workers who are frequently out of the office and need access to databases that are regularly updated in order to immediately transmit customer orders. Choosing basic business apps for the first wireless push will enable later progress into other applications, says Briones of AnyDevice.
Mobility is here, but it doesn t necessarily make sense for every user or every application.
He suggests starting with a pilot program first, since in addition to allowing for adequate testing, it can also help to determine the real value of mobilizing a particular application. High-tech companies tend to tackle the issue on their own, at least at first. Jeff Marsalis, IT director at the Reno, Nev.-based iGo Corp., which sells wireless networking gear, experienced just such a scenario. Last year, iGo s CEO directed Marsalis to set up a wireless LAN for the company s 12 senior executives as a pilot program. When the equipment arrived, Marsalis and his staff tested for range and also to see how corporate ERP, CRM, Internet and e-mail applications would perform.