Field Service Embraces New Mobile Devices

By Brian Albright, Field Technologies magazine

No one doubts the value of using a rugged mobile computer for field service and maintenance applications. Semirugged and consumergrade devices, however, are slowly infiltrating what was once the domain of specialized, rugged computers.

"The market has enthusiastically accepted that there is a place for consumer-style platforms," says Israel Beniaminy, senior vice president of product strategy at ClickSoftware. "Rugged devices are still important where the situation demands them."

There has been increased interest in new mobile platforms in the enterprise as a whole. Managers are evaluating new platforms as a way to reduce up-front hardware costs while taking advantage of new features found on smartphones, tablets, and other devices.