Efficient use of devices and platforms increase productivity, effectiveness

Efficient use of mobile technology can have a positive impact on small businesses by increasing productivity and competitiveness. Mobile technology can help to enable small businesses with administration, communications and processes through automation. It also provides access to media and a wide range of online resources, allowing them to compete on a global scale through marketing, promotion and advertising.

Here are a few answers to common questions to help a small business survive and thrive in today’s competitive environment.

Q. How can 5G benefit my small business?

A. The impact of 5G on small businesses cannot be overstated. It provides a more robust mobile experience, with greater efficiency, meaning a small business will be able to do more in less time.

Small businesses will be able to connect more devices, experience faster and more reliable connections, strengthen security, and improve their business’s mobility in today’s ever evolving remotefocused workforce.

Q. What is the most efficient way to manage wireless devices that are distributed to remote teams?

A. Mobile device management (MDM) helps to protect data, financial information, and private customer and employee information from threats like device loss, exposure to third-party apps and malware. An effective mobile device management system, like IBM’s Security MaaS360, will help provide small businesses peace of mind when employees are on the organization’s network.

The best MDM solutions will provide device tracking, inventory control, application management, password verification and enforcement, and data encryption. MDM solutions give the company access and control over company-issued laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones, internet of things and even an employee’s personal mobile device. A lost mobile device can easily be blocked remotely, and sensitive data erased. MDM solutions can also complete auto backups, ensure device updates are completed, provide third-party application control and keep track of all devices on a network.

Q. What are options to keep employees connected on the go?

A. Small businesses looking to connect to the internet on the go should consider a hot spot or a mobile router. Hot spots are portable devices that provide mobile network connectivity on the go allowing users to connect multiple devices, like laptops and tablets, to the internet through a shared connection. A hot spot is a better option if access to the internet is needed more frequently while on the go.

A mobile router is a device that establishes a connection to the internet that is reliable, secure and fast. It’s a better option for small businesses that will need a secure connection on a regular basis. Mobile routers also offer a wired connection for added security when traveling.

Q. What are the benefits of fleet management solution?

A. Today’s fleet management solutions do more than just tell a company where their vehicles are. Fleet management software allows companies to track their vehicles, conduct mechanical diagnostics, monitor driver safety, optimize routes, provide dashboard cameras, monitor temperatures in the trailer and secure their fleet. From increasing fuel efficiency to reducing accidents to more efficient customer deliveries, a fleet management system can help a small business thrive.

Q. How can mobile technology help my small business become paperless?

A. Creating a paperless office has become an achievable goal thanks to the abundance of mobile applications, online software, a variety of mobile devices and faster networks. A mobile form is a digital form that runs on a smartphone or tablet and enables users to collect data. With mobile forms, users can collect any type of data, such as notes, forms with input fields, photos and signatures. Apps like doForms, provide businesses with customizable forms, reduced paperwork and real-time integration with the office.

Tabatha McKay is area vice president/general manager for UScellular in New England.