Business Mobile Handsets Determined by Network Coverage

The iPhone’s functionality presses the issue of businesses having standardized smartphones and mobile device management (MDM).  Ubiquitous coverage from one carrier is unlikely through dense downtown areas and across countrysides.  The key factor is network coverage for all employees in work territories, conference traveling, and home telecommuting. 

Research studies continue to show that about half of enterprise employees choose their own device and seek reimbursement.  For SMBs, about three-quarters select their own device.  And despite IT managers being concerned security and costs, less than half of organizations have adopted a system for procuring devices and carriers.  As on-demand mobile CRM applications improve employee productivity, standardized security is important while network coverage is essential.  Salesforce.com with channel partners is a compelling application, but the business connection depends on network availability. 

The new iPhone’s contention for 3G network undermined the reliability of AT&T Mobility.  T-Mobile is a fourth place carrier in the US market, and still has business users in the areas of better GSM coverage.  Sprint eroded a loyal base of business customers in trying to merge the CDMA and Nextel iDEN networks.  RIM’s advantage has been a wide range of Blackberry devices across the major carriers accessible through a secure server.  Nokia is strongly promoting its MDM for standardization, and also has the benefit of a extensive products and carrier networks.  Apple might find its leadership in the business space will depend on diverse handsets, multiple carriers in a market, and a device management platform.