Field Service IT News – April 15, 2014
By Amy Taylor, contributing writer
In the news, Zebra Technologies will acquire Motorola Solutions' Enterprise business. Also, articles share insights into benefits of cloud solutions, BYOD security, overlooked benefits of management tracking solutions, and how work-order systems not only improve response times, but also provide data about costs and equipment use.
Zebra Technolgies To Acquire Motorola's Enterprise Business
Zebra Technologies Corporation and Motorola Solutions today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement in which Zebra will acquire Motorola’s Enterprise business for $3.45 billion in an all-cash transaction. The acquisition will be funded through a combination of cash on hand and new debt. The transaction, which was approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies, is subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2014.
Upgrade Legacy IT Systems With A Combination Of Possibilities
Truckinginfo.com makes the case for trucking companies to update their IT systems to improve business. While it might be difficult for your clients to replace both the hardware and software simultaneously, cloud computing could be an option. The article also provides some questions that can help determine if it’s time to upgrade.
BYOD Challenges Can Be Opportunities
FierceMobileIT reports on the challenges companies face when employees bring their own mobile devices to work. Enterprises can no longer ignore BYOD (bring your own device) security, as the risks include sensitive data loss, malicious software introduction, device loss, or other risk measures and this special report on BYOD provides analysis and strategies to tackle these challenges and turn them into opportunities.
More Accountability In Ohio Through Updated Work-Order System
The Bay Village in Ohio is rolling out a new work-order system that will allow better response times for residents, reports Cleveland.com. The system will help the city efficiently respond to residents’ calls for service, while also providing better data about project costs and equipment use.
Dispatching And Routing Capabilities Overlooked By Many Fleet Managers
Utility Products Management said that many fleet managers do not realize fleet management tracking solutions can do more than simply pinpoint a vehicle’s location on a map. Educate your customers about all functionality of the solutions, including simplifying communication between home base and the fleet, making it safer and more efficient.
Field Service IT Talking Points
The National Safety Council reminds drivers that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The council advises no cell phone use and no hands-free device use — which offers no safety benefits — while driving.
Fleet Owner said a new study is indicating that vehicle operators and passengers are more likely to be killed or injured in highway work zone crashes than in the construction zones, with speeding the major cause of vehicle crashes in the work zones. Work zone crashes have a pronounced impact on construction schedules and costs, but the Virginia Department of Transportation is offering several helpful tips to help drivers of all types of vehicles stay safe in highway work zones.
Mike Antich lists “10 Universal Mega Trends Impacting Global Fleets” providing insight on procurement ascendency, unpredictability of fuel price volatility, and the inevitable impact of taxation, legislative, and regulatory issues.
ITProPortal offers insight on “How to keep track of your tech gadgets and other possessions” with tracker-based solutions.
For more news and insights, visit BSMinfo’s Field Service Tech Center.