Aug/Sept 2008

Who needs a separate set of mobile business applications and handheld devices to manage the activities of workers on the move if you can incorporate everything you need in an all-in mobile phone account?

That is a very simplified version of the proposition being put by the Orange network with the launch of its Mobile Fleet product. In essence, you get connectivity, customisable forms-based applications and a data traffic allowance, all within a set tariff. Advanced mobile phones with PDA-like features substitute for actual PDAs or other mobile devices.

You also get access to the 240 traffic news service provided by the RAC and Trafficmaster, which includes traffic updates every three minutes.

Orange sees the resultant service as fulfilling many of the functions that are currently the preserve of mobile applications specialists. Detailed job specifications and updates can be delivered to field workers, and they in turn can record proof of delivery or collection and other information on the move and transmit the data back to base.

 

A key to the service is Orange's Mobile Forms product, which allows users to create and customise forms for mobile devices on a PC, using standard drag and drop functionality. No specialist IT support is needed, the company says. Data can also be exported in formats such as PDF or Microsoft Excel. Up to 100 bespoke forms can be set up within a given contract.

Within the standard price you get an inclusive 4MB of data traffic, which Orange says should be enough to send and receive about 1,000 Mobile Forms.

No integration with other customer systems or data is required, and Orange claims that a working system can be in action within 24 hours of registration.

The service is available on 18- and 24-month contracts at prices starting from £17 a month, or for a one-off annual charge starting at £300. The new price plan is available to all business customers on Orange Solo, Orange Venture and Orange Momentum service plans.

Orange has specified a range of mobile phones that are suitable for the service, all running the Windows Mobile operating system, They include several HTC models such as the HTC Dual Touch and Sedna, plus the Samsung i780. You can also use existing devices if they are appropriate.