In an industry grappling with fragmented supply chains and distributed workforces, the case for deployment of mobile data and IT processes is compelling. The question, however, is how best to plan a successful mobile strategy?

Build a successful mobile strategy

Atos Origin has in-depth expertise of designing, building and managing mobility solutions in the construction industry and related environments. We work closely with our customers at every stage to analyse requirements, consider the business challenges, build the case for change, address process transformation and evaluate the current capability to deliver against future goals.

As active participants in the DTI’s Construction Opportunities for Mobile IT (COMIT) initiative, we are taking a leading role in driving forward mobile applications and internet technologies in the UK construction sector.

The mobility challenge

Construction sites are not easy places to work. Basic services, access to high-speed broadband connections and adequate security are not always available. But the situation is constantly improving with GPRS and 3G data services becoming more reliable and good availability of suitable devices. However, the basic challenge of establishing the mobility strategy remains a complex issue that requires meticulous planning.

Trial and test

A key principle when embarking on a mobile initiative is to start small and to trial any new mobility application. Trials can be modest in scope and cost little but still present invaluable findings if key benefits and performance indicators are explicitly identified up front.

Trial results can reveal a great deal about activity in the field but even more about the impact on the people and processes in the back-office. Aside from addressing the hardware and connectivity issues, it is vital to consider process, cultural and organisational factors. Any trial should engage with staff and enable them to explore questions such as:

• Does the target workforce have the necessary time and skills to use the new device(s)?
• Are the changes required to people’s behaviour realistic?
• What is the impact on people’s jobs?
• Are employment terms and conditions affected?
• Are IT helpdesks geared to supporting the needs of a mobile workforce?
• Are asset registers up to date?
• Are repair and maintainance processes covered by existing service agreements or in-house skills?
• Do methods comply with industry best practice and regulations?
• Can outcomes be measured to test performance and return on investment?

Rolling out the mobile vision

Over time, fully fledged mobility solutions will become an everyday part of normal business. To get to that point existing processes, policies, procedures and supplier relationships must be scrutinised to test and address how they need to be adapted to support a mobile enterprise.

Mobility touches on every business process and can deliver numerous commercial benefits. Atos Origin can help to develop a successful mobile strategy that opens up new opportunities for construction companies, adding real competitive advantage.