From Wi-Fi to WiMax: ITSPA Helps Businesses Get on the Move1 September 2005
Work off-site? Travel with a briefcase full of paper? Wish your business trips were full of working instead of waiting? Need access to e-mail and documents while in meetings? If you can answer yes to any of these questions, it's time to consider technology that moves with you. Not only will you increase individual productivity, but you can also maximize your company's effectiveness and minimize travel costs by efficient use of technology and smart mobility management.
In 2004, nearly one in five U.S. adults, or 38.3 million people, traveled for business, according to the Travel Industry Association of America. And a recent study by Continental Research indicated that 25% of all business travelers miss having access to their internal company systems. Going wireless allows travelers to stay productive, read e-mail, research via the Web and stay connected while on the move. It also prevents the dreaded backlog of e-mails upon return to the office.
"Being out of the office doesn't mean being out of touch. With today's technology, there are many easy and affordable wireless options for smaller businesses," said Russell Morgan, president of the Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance (ITSPA). "A local solution provider can help decrease the stress of business mobility by working to figure out what kind of access you need, setting it up and developing a wireless protocol to make sure you will always have access to essential information."
Tips for Business Travelers - A quick guide from ITSPA:
1. Cut the cord. If you have hesitated to bring your business into the Wireless Age, now is the perfect time to invest in an office mobility program or a business travel program. Going mobile will help make sure you have maximum flexibility -- whether you need to walk across the street or travel across the nation -- to meet the needs of your business and be more responsive to your clients without being tethered to your desk by inefficient technology.
2. Sync your technology. Get your PC, laptop and hand-held wireless device on the same page. This will ensure you have the correct contact information and updated documents while
away from the office. Integrating all of your devices will ensure seamless travel.
3. Be secure. While most wireless networks have some level of security, the more protection you have on your device, the better. Even a basic password will protect your information
if your device is lost or stolen. For more advanced solutions, consider multi-layered security. Anti-virus and anti-spyware software combined with firewalls will decrease the likelihood that a hacker or identity thief will be able to access your information. You should also update your Web browsers and other software frequently.
4. Make your mobile device work for you. When setting up your mobile office, take only the hardware, software and programs you need. It's easy to be overwhelmed with all of the options, so cater your travel program to your own personal needs and work patterns.
5. Back-up your data. In case your laptop battery dies or smart phone gets lost, put essential files on a memory stick or CD before you leave. Printing out your list of important contacts is also a great way to make sure you never miss deadlines or appointments.
6. Prepare before you leave. Work with a solution provider to develop the most efficient, cost effective and secure travel plan if you have complex applications, concerns about protecting highly confidential data or want to utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for your mobile activity. A VPN provides additional data protection on common Internet-based transactions through virtually any terminal or network. ITSPA can help you find a local service provider
who understands all of the various mobility options, knows your business and can help get you on the road while still connecting to the office. Contact ITSPA at findapartner@itspa.net to locate a qualified solution provider in your area and learn more about efficient, cost effective business travel planning.
"Wireless connectivity allows businesses to thrive by increasing productivity and responsiveness, reducing paperwork, enhancing communication and providing more job satisfaction," said Jake Smith, Intel mobility marketing manager for the Americas. "Since nearly all notebooks produced today have built-in wireless capabilities like Centrino mobile technology, small and medium-sized businesses now have access to affordable connectivity options."
Types of mobile connections:
1) Wi-Fi: This network is built around hotspots often creating strict coverage areas and limiting movement. This connection, generally accessible for a small fee, is the most common in heavily populated locations like coffee shops, airports, hotels, libraries and convention centers with hotspots usually covering a 150-foot radius.
Widespread availability is an attractive option in today's environment, but Wi-Fi networks will likely never join together as one seamless coverage option.
2) 3G Networks: These networks provide fast data transmission from wireless service providers in large cities with a larger range of coverage than Wi-Fi. Availability is limited by subscription fees and roll-out plans in metropolitan areas. Make sure to check your coverage areas before committing to a service contract.
3) WiMax: This emerging network partners municipal governments with private companies to provide wireless access for entire cities. Usually offered to users free of charge, WiMax is
considered to be the next revolution in wireless just hitting the market today. In 2007, when WiMax becomes widely available, making a city wireless will take almost no effort.
About ITSPA:
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance (ITSPA) is a national, non-profit alliance serving as a reliable and credible resource for businesses hoping to take advantage of the benefits of new technology. ITSPA is dedicated to helping small and medium-size businesses adopt technology and grow by using local solution providers to solve business challenges.
CONTACT:
Information Technology Solution Providers Alliance
Laura Bishow
(503) 231-3086
lbishow@itspa.net
Source: dBusinessnews Dallas
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