= Selecting The Right Wireless Service: "“Smalt Businesses (NAPSA)—In today’s mobile environment, small businesses are relying more than ever on wireless services to manage their business. It is a competitive advantage that, if planned well, can help control costs and addto the bottom line by Navigation Systems for Mobile Phones—Navigation services, made portable years ago, can now be downloaded directly to a mobile phone. Critical for mobile professionals who can’t afford to be late to a meeting due to poor directions, the addition of the service to a phone also means they only need one device to get turn-by-turn directions to get around. Services such as VZ Navigator™ from Verizon Wireless help employees navigate unfamiliar streets and get streamlining processes, increasing project efficiencies and giving employees access to company data from virtually anywhere. Successful small-business owners who have implemented wireless solutions as part of their oper- traffic reports in real-time—all ations know several factors are critical for a smooth and easy transition. Following are key components for any business considering the value of wireless to its operation: Wireless Connectivity for Laptops—Searching for hotspots to connect to the Internet can waste time, gas and endin frustration in areas without Wi-Fi coverage. Because advanced wireless networks are now available from coast to coast, wireless companies offer customers the opportunity to connect to the Internet using their networks. Easily deployed services, such as BroadbandAccess from Verizon Wireless, give tech-savvy executives the ability to download large files from their notebook computers at broadband speeds while they are away from the office. By purchasing a laptop with embedded wireless BroadbandAccess or using a phone as a modem,road warriors can take their offices with them to access e-mail or behind-the-firewall By getting advice from trained wireless providers, a smart entre- preneur can quickly move some functions to a mobile environ- ment and see a solid return on investment. to e-mail can mean the difference between beating the competition and missing a rescheduled meeting with an important client. For a business that has grown to 30 employees, Hosted VZEmail Services from Verizon Wireless can provide a cost-effective solution to managing through expansion and keeping an eye on expenses. The Right Wireless Plan— It’s important to consider how a company will use wireless technology when selecting voice and data plans, what employees need to do their jobs and how to pay for voice and data usage. Most businesses have determined that in the long run, paying for wire- company information from thecar, less service for their employees is a much better way to manage wireless costs than allowing employees to expense the charges from personal cell phones. The Mobile E-mail—Acritical com- monitor and easily account for a park bench ora client’s office within the BroadbandAccess coverage area. ponent for true office mobility is employee access to e-mail and per- sonal information management tools such as calendars, contacts and tasks while out of the office. Whether a business uses POP3or a corporate server, staying connected reason is simple: companies can wireless charges when the busi- ness pays for the service. The few personal calls employees make typically don’t cost the company that much but can meana lot to loyal employees trying to balance work with their personallife. from a mobile phone. Disaster Planning—When disaster strikes, for example, a storm that knocks out power, wireless service can makethe difference in keeping customers informed and businesses up and running. Sending text message updates to employees or customers could be part of a crisis plan. The key, however, is to select a wireless carrier that plans ahead and spends the money to maintain its wireless network year round so, when the unforeseen happens, the carrier can pro- vide customers with the necessary connectivity. By taking the time to analyze the business and get advice from trained wireless providers who understand a business’s specific needs, have a vested interest in earning a company’s wireless dollar and recommending the right solution, a smart entrepreneur can quickly move some functions to a mobile environment andsee a solid return on the investment. The right wireless solution can not only improve client satisfaction, maintain competitiveness and attract new clients, it can also streamline communication and increase pro- ductivity. It is a big step, but many consider it a worthwhile decision that can help position the business for an increasingly competitive future. For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com.
