Why To Make Batteries A Managed Asset

By Cheryl Knight, contributing writer

Whether mobile devices are used by employees in the field or on premise, keeping the devices working properly represents a big investment for a company. Managing device batteries encompasses more than just switching out the bad batteries for good. Companies must also monitor the batteries employees use to determine the point when they are ready for replacement. Replace them too soon and their potential is wasted; wait too long and you run the risk of losing valuable time and money seeking replacement batteries.

The Logistics Online article, “Multi-Million Dollar Problem With Mobile Devices, And How To Fix It” explores the idea of making batteries a managed asset. Mike Grosberg, president and COO of Global Technology Systems, cites a case of a merchant that hired auditors to test every battery in each of its stores. He relates that one problem throughout the organization was that there was no system in place for disposing of batteries, and batteries stayed in service far longer than they should. More than 130,000 batteries were tested, about 60 percent were replaced, and NTFs (no trouble found) immediately dropped by 94 percent, service calls fell 64 percent, and ultimately the savings came out to $9 million annually, far exceeding the cost of the battery testing program.

Factors To Consider

When developing a battery management program, there are certain options to consider, according to a BSM article by John Pomerleau of Zebra Technologies. He suggests a centralized battery management system where batteries can be swapped and to facilitate disposal. Pomerleau also says to consider field-swappable batteries and configurable battery application capabilities. 

In addition, Jamie Friesema, director of sales for Honeywell Batteries, states the benefits extend to you. In the article Aftermarket Batteries Energize VAR Revenue, Friesema says, “VARs should look at their installed base of wireless devices and strive to replace batteries every 12 to 18 months. Fresh batteries not only will improve your customer’s device performance, but minimize service calls from dead or dying batteries.”