Frequently Asked Questions
The Benefits of Migrating from Batch Mode to a Wireless System
The view of many corporations that employ batch processing is “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it”. But when it comes to real-time processing, it isn’t a matter of fixing a process that isn’t broken– it is a matter of maximizing productivity to outpace your competition. The benefits of wireless mobility solutions are widely recognized. According to a study conducted by WLANA (Wireless LAN Alliance) to identify the cost of ownership as well as tangible and intangible benefits gained from wireless LAN technology:
- 92% of the respondents reported a definite economic and business benefit after installation of a WLAN
- 92% will continue to deploy wireless technology throughout the enterprise due to the benefits experienced
- All respondents in all industries (manufacturing, retail, financial, healthcare and education) reported a return on investment (ROI) in less than one year.
With the acceptance and subsequent proliferation of the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), companies now have the option to migrate from batch to real-time data processing. What are the benefits of upgrading to a real-time mobility solution?
BATCH MODE DATA PROCESSING: Data stored onboard the mobile device
With batch processing, mobile users collect data via handheld computers and bar code scanning devices that are not connected to the LAN either physically, or through a wireless connection. The collected data remains in the device memory until a user connects the device via a cable to a PC and uploads the information to a server. It is ideal for environments where real-time data is not mission critical.
While batch processing is considered very economical, there are a number of issues and related costs:
- Device management labor costs: Time must be spent daily downloading and synchronizing needed files onto the device prior to the start of a shift. This single administrative task often translates into a great deal of lost productivity through repetitive daily tasks.
- Labor costs: Each day, time is spent synchronizing information—walking to and from a PC to connect the device, synching the data, and resolving any process issues that may occur during synchronization. In environments that require data to be synched hourly, a staff of ten employees could easily spend ten minutes each per hour just uploading information—translating into a full workweek (40+ hours).
- Lost Data: If a device is damaged for any reason and data cannot be recovered, all work must be repeated to recapture the information.
WIRELESS DATA PROCESSING: Data stored on the server
When information is stored on a server and transmitted wirelessly, data is not only processed in real-time, but instantly available to other business systems. Real-time data processing is ideal for mission critical information, and can be implemented as either ‘always on line’ or ‘mixed mode store and forward’. The benefits of each are described below:
Always on-line
Real-time processing enables instantaneous movement of data from the point of capture to the point of most impact. No longer collected and stored in mobile devices, data is instantly visible throughout the enterprise—the time delays associated with batch processing are completely eliminated. The result is more timely information — enabling better business decisions.
The many benefits of real-time processing include:
- Inventory requirements can be reduced, lowering associated capital expenditures and increasing stock turns.
- Orders can be filled quickly and more accurately, increasing customer service, satisfaction and retention levels.
- Real-time inventory enables lean and just-in-time manufacturing.
- Up-to-the-minute information ensures an accurate picture of inventory enabling stronger Management of monthly revenues and profitability.
- More accurate processing of invoices through instant visibility of shipments.
Mixed-Mode Store and Forward
Real-time data processing can be implemented with batch processing applications, known as store-and-forward. In store-and-forward applications, mobile devices can either automatically connect and synchronize data when in range of a WLAN, or synchronize data when desired (for example, at the press of a specific key). This ‘mixed-mode’ offers the same benefits and return on investment as the ‘always on-line’ mode, with one powerful advantage: in ‘always on-line’ mode, applications usually will not work if the device is off line, but with ‘store-and-forward’ mode, applications continue to work whether they are on or off line.
Store and forward is ideal for workers who routinely travel outside your four walls and carry devices equipped with wide area wireless networking (WWAN) — such as delivery or repair personnel. In this instance, when mobile workers are in areas with spotty or no coverage, the business critical applications on the device remain available, and your mobile workforce remains productive.
Look at your entire enterprise
When most companies consider migration from batch to real-time processing, a single process in one division is usually assessed. However, the challenge is to view the entire enterprise to understand how a solution in one area of the business can actually serve many areas without a large incremental cost. It is this broad view of the enterprise and the effect of real-time processing that can provide an easy justification for migrating from batch to wireless.
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