Mobile technology is going places

Mobile technology is living up to its name: products are on the move and users are getting to grips with gadgets. So claims Warren Small, IBM product manager at Tarsus Technologies, who also suggests that despite some definite challenges and a price-conscious client base, the future looks bright especially if you`re into video conferencing.

Anything that is portable, promotes ease-of-use, and has built-in functionality can be considered a part of the mobile technology world, says Small.

This arena incorporates gadgets like handheld devices, cellular phones, laptops, Palm Pilots and much more. But, says Small, it is video conferencing and UltraPort technology that is spearheading the development and uptake of mobile technology.

"UltraPort can be loosely defined as interfacing with options, such as microphone, Bluetooth UltraPort and the UltraPort camera, in a great new way. With a convenient custom port embedded in the top edge of the IBM ThinkPad display panel, users can attach highly interactive options without cumbersome wires or cables. Even without an UltraPort-enabled ThinkPad notebook, IBM UltraPort options can work for you. Simply attach a stylish UltraPort Adapter to a standard USB port and you can use any UltraPort option," says Small.

Although he is dealer focused in his approach, Small is convinced of the general progress in the development and use of mobile technology in SA. This, he believes, has a lot to do with recent global events, such as the 11 September Twin Tower attacks, that have had an impact on worldwide e-commerce.

"Travel was one of the first sectors to feel a slump because of what happened on 11 September. The events that unfolded that day led to repercussions that are still being felt in the worldwide economy. Now, businesses are starting to scrutinise cost-effectiveness and the worker will be encouraged to be innovative and find new ways of conducting business. Incorporating notebooks, video conferencing and other mobile technology makes both practical and financial sense."

And consumers are starting to realise the benefits of saving time and cost, as well as an increase in productivity and a reduction in the total cost of ownership. Depending on the link between hosts, it is possible to create a virtual room simply by plugging an Ultraport camera into a ThinkPad Notebook. No more travel, no cost of additional infrastructure, no time wasting and no more waiting for connectivity to conduct e-business.

Despite the positives, Small suggests that SA is still a few steps down the ladder in comparison with other parts of the world like the US and UK.

"We must put this in perspective. Overseas users tend to buy technology without much consideration. The market overseas is made up of buyers that are not apprehensive about making that initial investment in order to experience the benefits. South African users tend be a lot more selective. They look at price first before considering what benefits there are, and would rather wait and learn about new mobile technology before committing to purchase."

As with most technology, there are a few challenges to overcome before South Africa can boast a mobile tech-savvy population. Small says one of the main challenges is education followed by price and infrastructure.

"Although more local users are starting to catch on to the benefits of acquiring mobile technology, there is still a measure of mixed feeling out there. Price is still a big factor in the decision-making process, and infrastructure is always a consideration. But, if we can spread the message that mobile technology can enhance the working environment and is of great benefit to people, then we are going places."