How to Avoid Handheld Frustration with 9 Simple Tips

Answers to "Why won’t it work?" Revealed
by Doug Ziewacz | www.everonit.com

Handheld mobile devices have allowed workers to do more away from the office in less time. The increased mobility and productivity that handheld devices offer can reap dividends for both businesses and end users. Unfortunately, most new technologies and innovations also come with their share of problems; this is especially true of handheld devices. For every user who has sung praises from the mountaintops about his/her handheld – whether it be a Blackberry, Smartphone, Treo or some other model – there’s another person ready to throw his/hers off. The good news, however, is that many handheld frustrations are avoidable. With a little homework and these 9 simple tips, your handheld frustrations just might be a thing of the past.

Will It Work on the Network?

In a recent conversation with Everon’s Chief Service Officer, Josh Clifford, I learned that the most important thing to consider when purchasing a handheld device for business use is “Will it work on my existing network in a secure and seamless way”? Josh also says, “A large majority of handheld frustration stems from the fact that corporate networks are not usually set up to support multiple handheld operating systems; some work great and others tend to work inconsistently or not at all” Too many operating systems and devices on one network can be a recipe for disaster.

Many users do not realize that corporate network environments are equipped with firewalls, exchange servers, and multiple layers of security. When a handheld device attempts to gain network access, a series of steps and configurations have to occur to provide a successful connection. Without proper knowledge of your corporate network configuration the chances that your handheld device will not work correctly are greatly increased. It can be frustrating to learn that most of the functionality on your new handheld is useless because it does not work properly on your network. It sounds obvious, but many people buy a handheld and try to get it to run on their networks, rather than checking with their technology administrators first. Consult your network administrator, IT department, or Everon prior to selecting a handheld device.

Ideally, companies should have a recommended or standardized handheld policy so that networks and handheld devices can be configured optimally. It’s a lot easier to configure the network to support one specific operating system and one specific hardware type.

Stay in Sync

The majority of handheld users rely on their devices to send and receive email. Synchronization issues are, to a large extent, the leading cause of end user frustration. Handheld devices synchronize to email servers, corporate networks, and computers in different ways. Multiple points of synchronization can mean potential points of failure. The ideal method for synching your handheld is to connect directly to your network server; however, this is not always possible. Again, check with your network administrator or IT department to ensure proper functioning.

Find out what is Under the Hood

Handheld devices come in all shapes and sizes these days and promise all sorts of features and capabilities. Regardless of which type of device you choose, remember that all of these devices run on specific operating systems. The three major operating systems are Palm OS, Windows Mobile (Pocket PC), and of course Blackberry (RIM).

Palm OS
Palm OS is combined with a suite of basic applications including an address book, clock, note pad, sync and security software. HotSync application provides integration with the user’s PC.
Microsoft Windows Mobile (Pocket PC)
Microsoft makes a scaled version of its Windows operating system for Pocket PCs called Windows CE. Pocket PCs are a good choice if you are already familiar with a Microsoft Windows Environment on your PC.
Blackberry (RIM)
The most well known and early leader in handheld technology. Very reliable when configured correctly.

Determine Functionality and be Realistic

Handheld devices are not desktop computers, that’s why they’re called handhelds! Be realistic and determine the types of functionality that will not only allow you to accomplish work in between time at the office, but will also work the best on your particular device. Keep your handheld tasks specific and organize them in a way that makes sense in terms of time and ultimately your needs. Be strategic about your out of office activities.

Wireless Capability

Wireless does not mean all access. Having wireless capability means that your handheld device may be able to sync with your desktop, network, exchange server, or wireless internet, but the functionality will differ between models.

Not all handhelds have wireless synchronizing capability, which means you have to wait until you are at your office computer. While this limits your on demand capabilities it may also limit potential frustrations. If your time outside of the office is brief and intermittent then this might be a good strategy, otherwise you might want to see if your device has both wireless and traditional HotSync capability.

Be Efficient and Stay Energized

If it seems like your PDA’s battery is always dying then you are probably not using it in an efficient way. Power management is an important factor in handheld success. Most handheld users do not realize that Bluetooth, WEP access, synchronization functions, and many other handheld activities are major battery drains. Be efficient and try not to place too many demands on your handheld. This will extend your battery life and give you more time per charge. If you are a heavy handheld user, then you might want to invest in an additional battery or extended life battery.

Be Courteous

Exercising a small amount of handheld courtesy can limit potential frustrations for colleagues and you. Handhelds have small screens, keyboards, and memory, so common sense use certainly applies.

Put yourself in the receiver’s shoes.
Next time you want to send email to someone’s handheld and you want them to read it, remember to think what you would do if you got that exact email. Likewise, handheld users do not send emails that could elicit or necessitate lengthy replies. Wait to get back to the office or pick up the phone.
Don’t over abbreviate
Get to the point and try not to be too cryptic. Your email should not have to be deciphered.
Keep your email subject short and to the point
Not having to open the email body is even better
Out of Office Means Just That
Handhelds are limited in size and functionality. Attempting to review and edit important documents or even project manage through your handheld is inefficient and not a great choice. Pushing the boundaries of handhelds can lead to mistakes and frustrate your co-workers and you.

Get Plenty of Memory

Just like your desktop PC; a handheld PC possesses basic memory termed RAM (random access memory). In simple terms, the more RAM you have, the more room you’ll have to run applications and store files. When it comes to memory on your handheld, more is better. Also, find out about maximum memory configuration. This will be an indicator as to how much future functionality the device can accommodate. Memory will become less of an issue in coming years, but for now make sure you evaluate the price of additional memory and try to get a device with an expandable memory slot. Just like your computer, the more information gathered on your handheld and greater processing demands that decrease overall performance.

Keep it Simple

Handheld devices are here to stay and with all the options available to users, the best advice is to keep it simple and find the right fit for your network and for you.

For more information about this article please contact dziewacz@everonit.com.

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