As spring approaches, it only makes one contemplate the amazing rebirth of the earth — year after reassuring year. There is nothing new beneath the sun.
This also applies to the wireless world. It is now hip to communicate once again, albeit in a different methodology; but still the old is new again. We are now merciless communicators in all mediums and are addicted to staying in touch. To that point, I recently saw a bill with over 14,000 text messages — now that’s a communicator.
We even think its cool again to read: on the e-reader of your choice with more options to come (Andrew Berg of Wireless Week says that iPad sales forecasts for 2010 ranged from between 5.5 million and 7.1 million units).
Because we at The Bill Police assist enteprises in reducing their wireless bills, it is important to understand what businesses are getting from these new technology methodologies. Thus, it is important to first establish metrics then measure productivity gains, customer responsiveness improvements and increased efficiencies in operations due directly to these new tools.
Second, what do these tools cost from both hard and soft cost perspective. For soft costs: how much time is it taking these users to manage devices, applications and content which make them more effective. How can the organization provide concierge global service to combat diminishing efficiencies?
For hard costs, users need to be on the correct plan for their usage (do they really need an unlimited data plan? Do the organization realize users are being charged $9.99 each month for ringtone downloads — is that a productivity gain?). These costs must be matched to user requirements and also monitored. Check for redundant billings (e.g. users on unlimited data plans which include messaging who are also paying separately for a messaging plan. I know, it sounds obvious, but you would be surprised!!)
So as spring brings about its renaissance, make sure you are familiar with one of the oldest adages that is also new again: there is no free lunch.