Whenever a mobile device fails in the workplace, the resulting downtime can have a significant impact. Failure of devices costs money, productivity loss, and sometimes businesses are unable to deliver their goods or services. In certain sectors, device failure can even put worker’s lives in danger. The introduction of affordable rugged devices has helped businesses around the globe improve productivity and the total cost of ownership.
Types of Mobile Device Failure
A study published in businesswire.com shared that regular consumer devices will likely fail 3 times more than rugged devices. Unfortunately, most companies still have not moved their operations to use rugged devices. Understanding the real cost of mobile device failure, a critical business move. Devices that fail can cause issues like work interruption and dissatisfied customers.
The real cost of mobile device failure for businesses can actually be higher than the cost of the device itself. As a result, unusable devices can have a devastating effect on business operations. Here are some common reasons why devices may fail or not function at work.
Devices Overheating
Overheating devices is a regular workplace issue that many businesses experience. This problem is especially common in organisations that need to continually use the device. Unfortunately, device overheating can have serious consequences on productivity. It could easily stop work since workers do not have a way to access their devices.
Poor Wireless Performance
Connectivity is a crucial function especially if your business is constantly operating in the field. Nowadays, as delivery and courier has reached tremendous growth, drivers and couriers need to be constantly connected to the software. However, even when most areas are now equipped with a range of internet connectivity options, some devices will not be able to take advantage of it. Rugged devices are equipped with 3G, 4G, WiFi and more to ensure a connection is always available.
Furthermore, in the public safety sector, poor connectivity can cause anywhere between 28 – 30 minutes of delayed response. In many cases, this can mean life or death for rescue workers or the police force when performing their duty. Rugged devices ensure that device failure
Minimum Durability
A regular consumer mobile device will have minimum durability versus its rugged counterparts. When mobile devices are used in areas where they are constantly exposed to elements like dust, water or high temperature, their lifespan lessens over time. Since your regular Android or Apple phone is not made to perform in areas like a manufacturing factory or a mining site, they will soon fail. These constant mobile failures will result in poor productivity and poor customer experience.
Impact of Mobile Device Failure in Industries
Mobile device failure will cause a range of issues for your business.
Financial Losses
- 127 million person-hours – Annually, hardware failure can cost businesses collectively more than 127-million-person hours.
- $46 million – Downtime due to mobile device failure can annually cost at least $46 million.
- $84,000 – Businesses lose anywhere between USD $84,000 and $108,000 for each hour of IT infrastructure downtime.
- $42,000 – Research leader Gartner shared that computer downtime can cost businesses up to $42,000 per hour.
- $13,000 – 1 in every 5 businesses will lose $13,000 each hour due to system downtime.
Business Interruptions
The cost of business interruptions can sometimes go unnoticed. However, it is crucial for companies to also understand how it can affect operations over time. For example, when mobile devices are not working it will take some time to fix the problem and reconnect it to the server. According to a study by UC Irvine, it takes an average of 23 minutes for employees to refocus on their tasks.
Considering Total Cost Of Ownership
One of the reasons why numerous businesses are still not using rugged devices is the expensive initial cost. However, with the possible losses mentioned above, it is crucial to consider investing in a mobile solution that easily goes beyond the cost of acquisition. Typical consumer devices will also anywhere between 1 – 2 years. Afterwards, these devices will either need replacement or constant visits to the technicians. On the other hand, a rugged device has a lifespan of between 3- 5 years which makes it the best choice for savings in the long run.
Improved Battery Life
Rugged devices offer the benefits of excellent battery life. As a result, you can expect it to work a full shift and deliver real productivity. Most consumer devices do not offer the best battery power. Most of the time, regular devices need constant recharging. Rugged devices perform differently because it offers longer battery life. As a result, rugged devices performs well even through multiple shifts on a single charge.
Connectivity
Rugged devices come with multiple connectivity options allowing your team to connect even in remote locations. Conker devices feature capabilities like Wi-Fi and optional mobile broadband that delivers incredible value to their mobile solutions.
Hardware Durability
One of the many important features that true rugged device has is its hardware durability. Unlike using a third party “rugged” case, a truly rugged device comes with the right ports, screens, and hinges that ensure protection for the entire device. This means, that every part of your mobile device will perform at its best.
