| Summary: Rugged mobile computing solutions are preferred in business environments due to lower total cost of ownership, improved customer satisfaction, and stronger security. Although often associated with harsh industries, rugged devices also benefit field service, healthcare, and retail by increasing reliability, reducing downtime, and supporting secure, efficient mobile workflows. |
Most of us don’t have much trouble understanding the value of rugged mobile solutions in extreme environments — like mining or oil & gas. But many of us don’t immediately recognize the reasons for a rugged mobile computing solution in less extreme environments — like general field service, healthcare, and retail. Here are three reasons why a rugged solution is the better solution to optimize mobile workflows.
1. TCO
Those three little letters standing for Total Cost of Ownership. According to VDC Research, rugged device TCO is measurably lower in comparison to non-rugged device TCO. It costs more to purchase, deploy, maintain, and repair non-rugged, consumer devices in business environments than it does to purchase, deploy, maintain, and repair rugged devices in business environments. The full report outlines the findings in detail, including loss of productivity from non-rugged device failure, lack of accessories to support mobile workflows, and inability to support current systems. Implementing mobile device management solutions further reduces costs and maximizes the efficiency and lifespan of rugged devices in business operations.
2. Customer Satisfaction
Have you ever called into a customer service line and had them tell you they couldn’t help you at the moment because their system was down? If you have, you know how frustrating it is. With 55% of government and enterprise organizations using or planning to deploy tablets as their mobile computing foundation, a lot rides on the tablets’ reliability and functionality. Once employee productivity is affected, the customer is next.
3. Security
Along with device management difficulties associated with BYOD and other non-rugged mobile computing solutions, security is a top concern. Rugged devices are built for enterprise environments, designed to support mobile workflows as well as IT security initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
A rugged mobile computing solution is a durable device designed for business use in demanding environments, built to withstand drops, dust, and heavy usage.
Although initially more expensive, rugged devices reduce repair costs, downtime, and productivity loss, making them cheaper over time compared to consumer devices.
They reduce system failures and downtime, ensuring employees can consistently serve customers without delays or interruptions.
No. They are also beneficial in retail, healthcare, and field service due to their reliability and durability.
They support enterprise-level security standards and are easier for IT teams to manage compared to consumer or BYOD devices.
A Horizons Talent Alumnus and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), the author brings a proven track record of success in senior shared-services leadership roles within large, complex multinational organizations, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
With deep experience at Senior Manager level, they have led strategic customer relationships by understanding core business imperatives, shaping service and solution propositions, and delivering measurable business outcomes.
