When you need mobile phones for business, you may think it is as simple as going to a network retailer and buying a phone you like. But to really get the best mobile phone plans for your business, you should consider first what your business’s needs are.
Businesses rely on good communication, so it is worth selecting the best phone, plan, and options for the work you do. Here are 10 things to consider when choosing mobile phones for your business operations.
1. How does your business use phones
Before making any buying decisions you should be informed about how your business uses mobile communication. Ask yourself and your employees how they use their phones to determine which features and plan you will need.
Some questions which can help you understand your business calling needs are:
- How often do you make calls? Do you need the phone during business hours? Evenings and weekends?
- Where do you call? Are the calls local or do you make international calls too?
- How often would employees be using mobile internet
2. Security needs
Sensitive or secure data, private phone conversations, and financial or personal information needs to stay in safe hands. Mobile phones present a challenge because of vulnerabilities including Wifi connections, hacking and theft. Some phones are easier than other to protect with strong passwords, encrypting apps, and remote erasing if a phone is stolen is lost.
3. Research apps
Business software and handy tools are easily available on mobile devices. However different devices have different apps. If you choose Android phones, for example, but use an app only available through Apple, you will have to make adjustments. Compatible software helps work to flow more smoothly so ensure that the device choices are relevant and consistent.
4. Organisation
Each type of phone offers handy tools such as calendars, reminders, password keepers, and other features. Organizing the work day and keeping track of your employees is important. Choose a device that makes it easy to do so. Being able to sync your phone calendar to your business agenda or look up your password streamlines your day.
5. Battery life
Unlike business phone systems mobile devices have batteries. Some mobile phones have longer battery lives than others. If you travel for business or are away from a power source for long periods of time, you’ll need a reliable phone. Factor in battery life when making decisions about handset choices.
6. Coverage maps
Businesses need to connect with their customers. A missed call, poor connection, or unavailable service can hurt the bottom line. Most mobile phone carriers provide a map of each service area. Choose a phone carrier who meets your business coverage needs. A low cost plan or good deal on phones does not solve the problem of missed customer calls!
7. Environment
On the road sales people who are often in cars or at meetings will require different handsets to that of a construction worker. Assessing whether all employees work in the same environment is crutial is assessing what your overall business needs are. It may be that certain groups of employees are better suited to certain handsets and others will need more robust models.
8. Cost
Budgeting communication costs may be an important concern, but the price tag needs to be weighed against the benefit to your business. Make sure your business has a phone service plan that fits its needs. Factor in the following,
- Cost of the mobile phones
- Monthly service fees
- Cost of any additional fees
9. Billing
In can be tempting to just get a mobile as and when you need one for new employees. Often this means going to different providers getting different handsets and the potential problem of lots of different bills. When you start to accumulate lots of phone bills it can become very difficult to manage. Here at Through the my.plan portal, you can generate live interactive bills allowing you to easily understand your billing and charges all in one place.
10. Let someone help you
Finding the right solution can take time and effort. Whilst managing a busy business time is not a commodity in abundance. It can therefore be wise to get help with selecting the right deals for your business. This is what our teams here at Yourmobile specialise in. We will ask you the right questions to assess your business and can offer you advice and guidance on what deals will be best for your specific requirements.
Request a call back today, we would love to help you save time and money.
