Mobile resource management is something that more and more companies
are outsourcing. They select a vendor to handle procurement, carrier contact,
and to provide software they can use to track device distribution and usage
statistics. Prior to committing to outsourcing mobile management functions, businesses often have questions. We
have gathered the most common ones here, along with the answers, based on the
use of one of the top providers in the industry.
One of the most
frequently asked questions pertains to fees. Charges for mobility management vary by provider and agreed-upon services. In
all cases, fees should be clearly explained in writing, with no fine print.
Services are usually imposed as a flat monthly fee based on account size or as
contingency bills based on the level of savings achieved. Mobile management providers usually require clients to sign a
contract, which may be either long-term (featuring the lowest rates) or month-to-month.
Reputable mobile resource management providers
use encryption to keep data secure when being viewed online by the client. The mobile manager and others using the
software need not worry that information could be accessed by an unauthorized
individual. Clients can even provide their employees with access to the data,
in order to encourage worker accountability. Telecommunications costs are expected
to continue increasing and providing employees with a picture of their usage
prevents misuse or abuse of these services.
Mobile management software is a solution even when a company uses
multiple telecommunications carriers, has several accounts, and is
geographically dispersed. Data is compiled in a format that makes sense to the mobile manager or other software user,
not the way it is billed by each carrier. Users can log into the software from
any computer and find exactly what they need within seconds. They can even run
reports broken down by team, manager, cost center, department, or other criteria.
Not all companies
have corporate policies regarding procurement and management of
telecommunication devices. It is advised that those who do not take steps to
develop them. Active policies that are regularly managed enable a company to
keep tabs on communications and operate more efficiently. The mobility management vendor may offer to
guide the client through the policy development process as part of its service
offerings.
All of this makes
outsourcing mobile management seem
very attractive. This leads businesses to wonder what they must do on a monthly
basis once they become clients. The truth is, not much. Once the vendor has set
up authorized individuals to access the information, has established the
management policies, and has developed the customized reporting, client
involvement is minimal. Clients access the mobile
resource management software when they need it and run reports as
necessary.
Mobile management providers obtain access to telecom carrier
accounts through online access with each one. The best providers support any
telecom carrier that offers online billing. Every month, they identify savings
that clients can realize by making recommended changes. Using mobility management software, business
clients are able to segregate relevant data based on viewing and reporting
needs.
