Mobile broadband is seeing an increased proliferation in large companies with an increased upthrust in data traffic. Now, it can actually help SMEs cut down their costs to a considerable extent.
Usage of mobile broadband USB sticks and data cards while traveling can reduce technology costs. This is the recent finding of a report published by Analysys Mason titled, 'Small enterprises save money with mobile broadband', as part of a series that examines the ways in which SMEs can reduce technology costs quickly.
In a tough economy, when SMEs are finding ways to reduce costs, increase productivity, and remain competitive, taking advantage of simple technology solutions, such as mobile broadband, can prove to be a good business play.
Instead of relying on Wi-Fi hotspots, small enterprises' employees should use mobile broadband USB sticks and data cards when traveling to save their businesses GBP2145 each year, according to the report.
“Seemingly small technology expenses incurred by many employees add up quickly,” says Steve Hilton, principal analyst and author of the short report. The report has highlighted that companies in the UK have saved as much as £2,000 per year by giving preference to mobile broadband rather than Wi-Fi.
Hilton says, “Taking advantage of simple technology solutions, such as mobile broadband, with payback periods of six months is a sound business practice." He also says that mobile broadband provides better coverage and reliability in most areas than Wi-Fi hotspots, although it may be slightly slower.
The difference in the pricing lies in the figures where small businesses spend as much as £700 per Wi-Fi using employee every year; whereas mobile broadband can easily be afforded for less than £10 per month. Service providers are also using this opportunity to shell out better services.
Currently, service providers are offering business mobile broadband packages which are been complimented with larger download limits and also better technical and customer care services. SMEs can choose competitive prices or packages to suit their different business needs. This is also proving to be quite beneficial as some of the packages are appropriate for business use.
Based on unprecedented consumer demand, the mobile broadband market is poised for an explosive growth in the next few years. Analysts predict mobile subscribers will total up to more than 5 bn by 2013, and more than 2 bn of these will be mobile broadband subscribers.
Mobile broadband in India will also see a surge in the aftermath of the 3G and WiMax auction. It is yet to be seen that how these services are leveraged to the best by the SMEs. The scene still remains vague with the delay of the auctions. It is only after implementation that businesses will be able to adopt it for their best. However, the overall scenario remains positive.
archanasi@cybermedia.co.in
Page(s) 1
Print
Comment
Email
Digg
Del.icio.us
Reddit
