With all the options available and the rapidly increasing technology, it can be confusing to sift through all the mobile device choices. Retailers certainly don’t make the process any easier as they promise their latest greatest product to be the best thing for you. Choosing a communication device that suits your needs is important, but where on earth do you begin? If you’re in the market for a new mobile phone, mobile radio, tablet, or PDA you’ll want to ensure that the product you end up with will meet your needs, be enjoyable to use and have the capability to keep up with changing needs.
Things to Consider Before Selecting a Communication Device
- Intended Use. The first thing that should be considered when looking at new mobile devices is the primary use for it. If the device will be used for work, there are certain tasks you’ll need it to do that wouldn’t necessarily be important in your personal life and vice versa. For instance, you might use radio communication to communicate with your co-workers in a large warehouse or construction site. Two-way radios allow you to instantly talk to one person or to your whole talk group. But you might need a completely different device if you work in an office or for use at home; here the ability of a mobile phone would better serve the purpose for text messaging, email, or web browsing.
- Capabilities. Before you begin your mobile device search, write out all the things you’d need it to do for you. A basic mobile phone for texting and talking might be fine for one person, but not for you if you need a smartphone with a lot of apps and then the advantage of a mobile radio is there is no limit to how many of them can be linked, which would be beneficial for business and even for the whole family to use. Once you’ve determined the capabilities you absolutely can’t live without, you can begin eliminating devices that won’t meet your needs.
- Extras. Extra features are important, even if you’re frugal by nature and simply want to meet basic needs. You never know what might change in the near future, and having a mobile device with a few extra features can help you meet those needs. When looking at mobile devices that have features you would consider to be extras, think carefully about whether they could be beneficial to you now or in the future.
- Practicality vs. Price. Just because a mobile device is more expensive doesn’t mean it’s still not a good deal for you. Compare prices based upon what different devices can do for you. A savings of money might look attractive until you’re inconvenienced by the lack of apps, inability to connect with the internet or are reliant on a service provider for operation of the system from your device.
- Budget. Regardless of whether you’re searching for a new device for work or home, you probably have a budget to work with. Before choosing a mobile device that doesn’t offer everything you need but fits into your budget, ask if there are any cost-effective packages or plans that would give you more capabilities for your money. For instance there are no ongoing fees or monthly contract with two way radios.
- The Future of the Device. We all know that technology changes fast, and a device that’s considered cutting edge now can end up being obsolete a few years down the line. As you research mobile devices, find out what the company plans for the future and whether or not they’re planning upgrades or next generation devices so you can transition smoothly as technology advances.
Whether your new mobile device will be used for work, your personal life or a combination of both, it should streamline your tasks and make life easier, instead of harder. Don’t allow yourself to be drawn in by enticing advertisements that promise the moon and end up delivering next to nothing. By taking the time to do your homework and plan the best purchase possible, you can feel secure in your choice of mobile device and its abilities to meet your needs.
