If you’re dealing with the growing need for more mobile devices at your organization, you already know it’s not the sexiest part of the job, but it’s crucial. Mobile devices are the backbone of how we communicate internally, establish internet access, and track overall productivity. And the reality is that managing these devices can get expensive, especially as your team expands.
Have you thought about what happens when your company is growing too fast or opening a new location? Or maybe you’ve acquired another company and are suddenly in charge of an even larger fleet of devices. How do you get the best deal and ensure you’re not overspending?
Without proper mobile lifecycle management, making informed decisions about existing devices becomes a huge task. Mismanagement can lead to sky-high costs and ineffective sourcing. And trust us, nobody wants to be that person who missed a better deal because they lacked visibility into the current environment.
What Happens When Your Company is Growing Too Fast?
When your company’s growth feels like a runaway train, it can be exhilarating—and a little terrifying. Suddenly, you’re responsible for an expanding number of mobile devices. Keeping track of them becomes a real challenge.
Without a solid mobile lifecycle management system, you will most likely find yourself struggling to manage devices, plans, and expenses. This can lead to unnecessary costs and inefficiencies that eat into your budget. It’s like trying to build a house without a blueprint.
Imagine this scenario: You acquire a new company, and now you’re in charge of their existing devices. Without clear visibility, you might end up paying for devices you don’t need or missing out on opportunities to consolidate plans. It’s like finding out you have two gym memberships—double the cost, no extra benefit.
Why Someone Would Need to Buy Mobile Devices
Let’s break down why your company might need to buy mobile devices in the first place. Whether you’re expanding, acquiring, or just keeping up with technological advancements, having the right devices is essential.
Growth of Company
When your company is growing, you need more devices to keep up with the demand. This includes smartphones, tablets, and other mobile tools that help your team stay connected and productive.
Acquisition
Acquiring another company means inheriting their mobile devices. This can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how well their devices align with your current setup. Proper mobile lifecycle management helps you assess the situation and make informed decisions.
Technological Advancements
Staying competitive means keeping up with the latest tech trends. Investing in new mobile devices ensures your team has access to the best tools that help increase productivity and efficiency.
Finding the Best Device Plans for Your Budget and Needs
Now that you understand why you might need new devices, let’s talk about finding the best plans to fit your budget and needs. This is where sourcing comes into play.
Start by assessing your current usage patterns and identifying areas where you can optimize. Look for plans that offer flexibility and scalability, so you can easily adjust as your company grows.
When negotiating contracts, pay close attention to terms and conditions. Make sure you’re getting the best value for your investment. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare offers from different providers.
What to Look for in a Contract
Contracts can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can secure favorable terms that benefit your organization. Here are some key points to consider:
Flexibility
Look for contracts that offer flexibility in terms of usage and scalability. This allows you to adjust your plans as your company’s needs change.
Cost
Negotiate for the best possible rates while ensuring you’re not compromising on quality or service. Be mindful of hidden fees and charges that could inflate your costs.
Support and Service
Ensure the contract includes robust support and service options. This way, you’ll have access to assistance whenever you need it, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
Operations Management
Once you’ve got your devices and plans sorted, it’s time to focus on operations management. The goal is to get things up and running smoothly while minimizing downtime.
Order Management: Efficient order management ensures you receive your devices on time and in good condition. This involves tracking orders, managing inventory, and coordinating deliveries.
Mobile Cost Optimization: It’s so important to constantly monitor and make sure you prevent data overages and extra costs by adjusting your plans and making sure they meet your business needs.
Invoice Language Management: Set up a standard for naming invoices across similar assets for better comprehension and understanding.
Expense Management
Expense management is all about visibility—knowing what you’re spending on and ensuring you’re getting the best value for your money. Here’s how to master it:
Invoice Management: Get all your invoices in order, check for accuracy, and process them on time. This reduces costs from inaccurate invoices or late payments.
Optimization: Use visibility in your invoices to make informed decisions. Identify devices that need to be disconnected or negotiate better deals with providers.
Conclusion
Taking better control of your mobile environment helps you make the best purchasing decisions, minimize downtime, and keep costs low. Proper mobile lifecycle management is key to maintaining visibility, optimizing operations, and ensuring your organization’s success.
Remember, managing mobile devices might not be glamorous, but it’s essential for your company’s growth and efficiency. By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to mastering mobile lifecycle management and achieving IT excellence.
