The Pitfalls behind Consumer-Grade Devices

Let’s begin this particular blog entry by assuming you are an observant ready and have already surmised by the title that we plan on making the argument for ruggedized enterprise-grade mobile devices in the workplace. But before we do, we are happy to spell out the attraction of considering consumer-grade devices, for that is where our story begins.

Consumer-grade devices are just what they sound like. These are smartphones, tablets, etc. that are designed for personal use. They typically require add-on peripherals to be used in the workplace. And while companies are increasingly turning to mobile technology to help drive the next level of productivity, efficiency and service in their organizations, some are drawn to enlist consumer-grade devices for a number of reasons. First and foremost, they appear to be less expensive on a per-device basis (we’ll get to total cost of ownership (TCO) later). Second, their employees are already familiar with these devices, so there’s a lower requirement on training.

Now that we’ve established the top-level benefits of consumer-grade devices, let’s take a look at the various pitfalls that lie just beneath the surface.

LOOK OUT!

Too often, consumer-grade mobile devices introduce unforeseen complexities and hidden costs that, when added up, result in a higher TCO. When you add up all the cost associated over the life of each device, a consumer-grade smartphone might actually cost you 51% more than an enterprise-grade device.* Additional costs are associated with the following:

• Rapid device and technology obsolescence
• The need to purchase additional peripherals software, or services
• Device downtime impacting productivity and customer service
• The high expense of replacements instead of repairs
Additionally, consumer-grade devices are more fragile than rugged scanners. While most smartphones can handle movement and the occasional drop, they can’t typically handle high drops, harsh weather, or repeated rough use. In one year alone, consumer-grade devices are four times more likely to fail in industrial or field applications. **

Even when augmented with protective casings, consumer-grade devices struggle to survive drops, function unreliably in dirty or wet conditions, and cannot withstand excessive vibration, shock, or extreme temperatures. Due to these limitations, up to 23% of consumer-grade devices will fail in industrial or field environments. **

ON THE OTHER HAND…

When you partner with Mobile ID Solutions for your mobility solutions, our mobility experts will work closely with you to create a solution tailored to your real-world needs with mobile technology that is purpose-built for use in demanding line-of-business applications. You’ll realize a lower TCO for each solution, which, in turn, builds up your ROI, thanks to the following:

• Unstoppable durability
• Exceptional audio quality in loud environments
• Seamless roaming and lightning-fast connectivity for full speed workflows
• Best-in-class bar code and RFID scanning capabilities
• Full shift battery power
• Rock-solid security
• Simplified device management

Bottom line: look before you leap. In addition to the issues detailed in this posting, consumer-grade devices miss the mark in areas such as power, security, compliance, and accessibility. When you look at the big picture and truly compare apples to apples, enterprise-grade mobile solutions cost less, do more, and are more reliable. We invite you to learn more by contacting Mobile ID Solutions at 714.922.1134 and avoid the pitfalls.

*VDC Enterprise Mobility Mobile Device TCO
**VDC Mobility in Manufacturing and Logistics