Mobile & Wireless Slideshow: 9 Tips for Outsourcing Mobile Operations

9 Tips for Outsourcing Mobile Operations

With IT resources stretched thin, enterprises find that outsourcing various aspects of mobile deployments can make sense. Yet CIOs are discovering that deploying and managing thousands of mobile devices can be a daunting task. These tips for mobility strategy come from Enterprise Mobile CEO. www.enterprisemobile.com

1. Evaluate your internal resources

Determine whether you can dedicate resources to the evolving requirements of your users, while keeping up with changes in the market.

2. Assess Your Goals for Outsourcing

Start by determining how your users will employ mobile devices.

3. Answer Key Questions

. Which devices provide needed capabilities?

. How will you procure those devices?

. How will you configure them and load the appropriate applications for different user groups?

. How will you make sure that the devices work after they are shipped out?

9 Tips for Outsourcing Mobile Operations - Page 5

4. Find an Experienced Mobile Outsourcer

Collect information on best practices, ask about knowledge transfer from their experts to your IT staff.

5. Match Services To Your Needs

Key elements include procurement, deployment, device configuration, asset management, replacement and repair, Help Desk support, as well as training and recycling of obsolete devices. Your shop's experience and resources dictate the tasks handled internally.

6. Identify Expertise

Outsourcers must understand and support the specific devices and applications you want, including services tailored to your needs.

7. Identify Costs in Detail

Understand variable and long term costs as well as initial savings.

8. Focus on Operational Specifics

Device management can provide significant efficiencies, via techniques like remote deployment. Security policies are another key area.

9. Clarify User Expectations

Goals include limited user downtime and a boost in user productivity.