What to look for in mobile computer mounting equipment

Next Generation Power & Energy Magazine

STEVEN’S POINT, Wis. — What criteria should be considered when fitting a fleet with mobile computing mounting equipment?

According to The 2008 Enterprise Mobility Benchmark Report, mobility solutions are “having a measurable impact on the productivity of an organization’s workforce.” Those Aberdeen deems best-in-class illustrated a 71 percent increase in employee responsiveness, a 65 percent increase in an employee’s ability to gain knowledge, and a 70 percent increase in the flexibility of the workforce upon integrating a mobile computing system. For those in charge of piecing together a mobile strategy, there are a wide variety of critical factors to be considered and questions that need to be asked. According to a 2006 Aberdeen Group survey, 87 percent of fleet operators reported a 24-month, or longer, average to complete a mobile computing upgrade from conception to signed vendor agreements. A lengthy process such as this dulls the sharpest of competitive edges.

Here, Jeff Greene, President of Gamber-Johnson, an ISO 9001:2000 certified manufacturer of rugged docking stations and vehicle mounting systems, discusses fleet assessment and critical factors to look for when selecting an integrator and provider to supply docking and mounting solutions.

PE. First, should one be concerned with the docks and mounts chosen for a mobile enterprise?

JG. It’s one thing to invest in mobile computers — it’s another thing to invest in the mounts and docks that ensure the mobile computers function properly and continue to do so. Mobile computing systems are vital to the utility industry because much of their workforce is just that — mobile. Companies are under pressure to improve service, safety and security; reduce operational costs; manage a large mobile fleet; ensure their employees have remote access to information; and retain customers. Mobile technologies can do all of this. But you don’t want to make the costly mistake of purchasing top-grade computers and software, only to have them malfunction because they are not properly housed.

Proper selection of vehicle mounts and docking stations can also enhance user safety and satisfaction, with ergonomic designs that give users more comfort and space. If the docks and mounts properly house the equipment, they can contribute to higher productivity, ensure good fleet system and data management; and improve response times, customer satisfaction and customer retention.

Bottom line, to achieve optimum Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) advantages, mobile computers need to be in the hands of the mobile professional in the field and they need to be working reliably. The Aberdeen Group noted that Best-in-Class providers use cost savings; improvements in workforce flexibility; end-user satisfaction with devices; improvements in workflow; and customer satisfaction as key performance indicators. Vehicle mounts and docking stations play a vital role in these benchmarks, in ensuring TCO targets are met and in maximizing return on investment.

PE. What questions need to be asked when conducting an internal needs assessment of a utility’s fleet?

JG. One of the most important factors is understanding exactly how the mobile computer will be used in the application. For example, if the mobile computer is accessed frequently and taken in and out of a vehicle routinely, you need to note that in your list of vehicle mount criteria.

Similarly, understanding the proper placement of the computer in a vehicular environment is critical to the user. Is the cab crowded by unnecessary equipment? Can systems be integrated to save space? What will make the user more comfortable? Is the setup safe for the user?

You may also want to consider how long you will be keeping your current vehicles in your fleet. Having a dedicated mounting solution for a specific vehicle is good, but what happens when you upgrade the vehicles in your fleet? Will the current mounting solution still work in the new vehicle?

This is where modular design and the interchangeability of mounting components play a critical role. If the mounts are modular in design this can minimize your investment later down the road when it becomes necessary to place the system into a new vehicle. For example, if you have a modular system in place, when you upgrade you may only need to invest in a new vehicle base — as opposed to a complete new mounting system — on the initial deployment.

Finally, you should also consider the expertise level of the technicians installing the mounting system. Will you use internal staff and technicians? Or those of the integrator? It’s important to determine this in advance because good equipment can become useless and/or dangerous if not properly installed.

PE. What are the critical factors in selecting a provider?

JG. Several factors are critical in determining which provider to select. Remember, their products will be the difference between a mobile computing solution that functions, and one with intermittent performance that can undermine your mobile strategy, fleet management and performance. In looking for a provider, first seek one that has a deep reservoir of mounting solution alternatives that are highly adaptable to your needs. They should also offer exceptional service ¬– both online and personal. You need to be certain that you and your integrator have a third partner in the mix and one that you can call on for questions and solutions. Ask around — see what sort of reputation your potential provider has and whether they can provide case studies and professional references that are relevant to your industry. Reviewing these materials, the challenges faced in a project, and how those challenges were met will give you a good feel for how the provider works. Check they have product available when you need it (long lead times can crush mobility systems integrations) and will work with you on ever-changing deadlines. Deployments and installations can surge forth or may, at times, be put on hold; be certain you have a provider who is willing to alter delivery schedules. Finally, they should offer durable, modular equipment that meets the highest industry standards; provide detailed installation instructions with their product or, preferably, have a certified network of installers who can install products should you decide to contract that service out; and provide manufacturer’s certifications (e.g. ISO 9001, FCC, UL, RoHS) as evidence of quality and workmanship.

PE. And what are the critical criteria for equipment selection?

JG. Modular design is important because it gives you upgrade flexibility going forth. Interchangeability is very convenient — making it easy for technicians to learn and install the equipment. Equipment must be rugged and durable as well. It should be designed with user-safety and ergonomics in mind. For docking stations it is critical to select products that are certified and endorsed by the computer manufacturer, or you may risk serious compatibility issues between the docking station and mobile computer.

PE. How is it possible to keep up with advancing technologies once a fleet has been fitted with mobile computing and mounting systems?

JG. I believe one of the best ways to stay current on advancing technologies is to broaden your network and make good use of user conferences and symposiums typically hosted by the mobile computing manufacturers. They often invite their partners (e.g. software developers, carriers and vehicle mounting companies) to participate and give presentations on the latest challenges and developments. These events also allow one to network with other users and to see best practice.

PE. You mentioned the importance of a lifecycle mobile solution. Could you elaborate on this?

JG. The best mobile strategies are those that focus on a total vehicle solution and that involve periodic, scheduled reassessments of the mobile solution with the cooperation of the integrator and provider. You need to integrate the way you do business with the way you manage your technology. Therefore, look at the vehicle as a whole — as a mobile office and an extension of your company.

By establishing policies that determine how technology is to be used, how to evaluate the usefulness of the components, and when to reevaluate the current system, you can put a life cycle solution in place. Select and benchmark indicators such as cost savings, improvement in response times, end-user satisfaction, customer satisfaction, and increases in production. These indicators will point out what is working and what isn’t to help you focus your attention in achieving maximum ROI.

If you set up a lifecycle solution with your integrator from the initial deployment, you’re one competitive step ahead. If you select rugged, durable, modular mounts and docking stations to house your components, then you’re another step ahead — with a system that’s easy and cost-effective to upgrade as your company strives to meet new customer demands with the latest mobile technologies.

Jeff Greene, Gamber-Johnson LLC President, has a BS in Industrial Technology Production from Eastern Washington State University and graduated from the Minnesota Executive Program from the University of Minnesota Carson School of Business Management. Greene formerly worked in operations management for Square D Corporation, GEC\ALSTHOM and Larsen Electronics.