Mobile computing has seen significant development in recent decades, with the technology seeing increasing acceptance and advantages for businesses in retail to professional fields. As the structure of ‘business’ and communication practices undergo change, mobile computing is developing and adapting to meet the needs of consumers. “Today’s workforce is becoming more dispersed and mobile. To stay informed, companies need quick and flexible access to local area network (LAN)-based data and applications. The challenge facing many organisations is to provide the right information to the right people, whenever or wherever they need it. And accessing this information must be cost-effective, secure and flexible for businesses to deploy, yet easy to centrally manage�. (Telstra Wireless IP).
At present, mobile computing consists of a number of products and services attempting to enable consumers continuous access to business data and facilities whilst working away from the ‘traditional’ office. “Wireless IP solutions are designed for businesses with staff who don’t work in a traditional office, such as sales, technical and repair staff, transport and courier officers, health workers and other ‘power users’. (Telstra Wireless IP). Whilst the majority of technology currently available in Australia is not as advanced as that in America, Asia and Europe, the use of PDAs, Bluetooth and Smart phone technology is gaining popularity as it becomes increasingly affordable. Businesses and individuals alike are expected to see increased productivity and connectivity through the use of this technology, as its applications in many facets of business and leisure are identified.
Australia has recently seen the introduction of Blackberry devices, with Telstra offering the system for around $80 per month. Blackberry enables users to utilise the facilities of a mobile phone, with the added advantage of email, whilst away from the office or home. Combined with the use of a wireless laptop and a network communication card, workers can be on the move, yet constantly connected wherever they may be. The arrival of ‘WiFi (wireless fidelity) hotspots’ allows workers to connect to high speed internet whilst at the airport, stopping for coffee or during a business dinner. Optus has introduced a list of over 100 Wireless Connect Zones, where users can gain access to office information, between work engagements.
Mobile computing also opens the door to reconfigured office spaces and alternative locations (McKimmy, 2003). Laptops take up significantly less space than desktop computers, and may potentially see significant changes to the ‘working environment’. The transfer of information no longer requires workers to return to an office environment in order to connect to a company’s computer network, and may see the move to fewer arranged meetings and greater mobility.
Bluetooth Wireless. 2004. Efficient business. http://www.bluetooth.com/business (accessed October 28, 2004).
Bluetooth Wireless. 2004. All products. http://www.bluetooth.com/products/index.asp (accessed October 28, 2004)
McKimmy, P.B. 2003. Wireless mobile instructional labs: Issues and opportunities. International Journal of Instructional Media, 30 (1) :111. (accessed August 11, 2004 from ProQuest: multiple databases).
Telstra Corporation Australia. 2004. Telstra Wireless IP. http://www.telstra.com.au/wirelessip/index.htm (accessed August 4, 2004).
Telstra Business. 2004. Introducing Flexible Working: Wireless Solutions Special.
Emma Hanson 08:33, 29 Oct 2004 (EST)
