subject: Hand Held Computers Help Mobile Work Force to Stay Connected [print this page] Hand Held Computers Help Mobile Work Force to Stay Connected
The current business scenario necessitates connectivity, instant communication and permanent access. Computers that once stayed in homes and offices, have been condensed in size to such an extent that today it is possible to have hand held computers that would remain connected to the main computer, and therefore, there can be a constant exchange of information and regular updates, and enhance efficiency with effective action taking place without any wastage of time. It is literally a question of moving the office to the field in terms of updates and communication. Handheld computers meet the requirements of employees who have field assignments and critical tasks to accomplish outdoors, and the software installed helps companies to stay connected to them. As a result efficiency improves, assistance can be provided from the office to the field staff without wasting time and helps to assign the right person to the right location at the right time. Handheld computers are an instrument of supplying mobile intelligence to workers on outdoor locations. They have also enabled business processes to be initiated at the point of contact to accelerate the pace of business transactions.
A hand held computer is a personal digital assistant and is also called a palm top computer, though the multiple tasks it can accomplish make it function as a mobile phone, web browser or even a media player. It can access the Internet and its features include a touch screen for feeding in information, a memory card to ease data storage and some form of connectivity through Bluetooth or WiFi. Typical examples of handheld computers are the RIM Blackberry, the Apple iPhone and the Nokia N-Series.
The most important aspect of handheld computers is the synchronization of data with computers. This helps in keeping all team members in a loop with constant updates about all that is happening and all that needs attention. The end result is improved customer relations, higher productivity and employee satisfaction in staying connected on the personal front as well. The cost cutting that ensues need hardly be elaborated since unnecessary commuting and time wasted going back and forth or delayed decisions all combine to trim expenses.
Handheld computers are beneficial for workers in all types of industries. For instance, in the retail segment the staff gets to keep track of latest buying trends and manufacturers can keep track of their latest warehouse status; financial personnel are able to get latest updates, and the fields of health and education get information of the most current status.
While handheld computers need an initial investment but their long-term benefits far outweigh the expense involved.
