Connectivity Equipment Provider shares the 5 things you need to be looking for

Written by Richard Hart, Director of Global Connectivity, Quectel

Businesses today are heavily reliant on real-time data when it comes to key business decisions, to get this data in real-time, reliable means of connectivity are vital when ensuring information is received quickly and securely.  Without effective connectivity, the data becomes redundant because of our machine-to-machine economy, fast, reliable, secure IoT connectivity to take advantage of all the data available to drive business success.

Core benefits of real-time IoT data:

• Real-time data allows manufacturers to receive instantaneous details on machine operations. It informs manufacturers to pull a machine offline and when repairs are required, rather than waiting until the machine unexpectedly fails.
• Real-time data allows retailers to respond to peak times so they can adjust inventory appropriately.
• Car and lorry drivers use real-time traffic data from Google Maps, Waze, and similar programs to adjust their routes to avoid congestion caused by accidents, roadworks or unexpectedly heavy traffic.

Below are five attributes that companies should look for from their providers when purchasing their antennas, modules, and IoT devices for connectivity:

1. All antennas and modules are compatible. By going to a single-source provider, you ensure that all the equipment will communicate together. You want a provider who can supply an embedded SIM and iSIM offering. If you attempt to cobble together different solutions from different providers, you are apt to run into compatibility and configuration issues. Plus, you might deal with the complexity of trying to coordinate several parties when rolling out their devices. Customers are always conscious of the need to simplify processes and workstreams. Working with a single provider is much more efficient and will provide a better experience for you and your customers.
2. End-to-end support. Find a provider with complete lifecycle management – from initial design to procurement to manufacturing logistics to installation to going live.

Again, this goes to the idea of the simplicity and efficiency of having a single go-to support when a company has technical, billing, or other issues. Working with a single source is much easier than solving problems with multiple providers. The latter will often result in finger-pointing with no one taking responsibility – especially when it’s a non-compatibility or other issue that prevents the different technologies from interacting seamlessly.

3. Don’t forget to check the small print. The provider should be ready to demonstrate that all compliance and regulation is up to date to meet the varying rules of different governmental jurisdictions. If there’s any doubt, seek a different provider.
4. Ensure they understand what you do and what you need them to do. The provider should work with you to help optimize the use of the connectivity equipment in every part of your business, rather than being a company that merely sells equipment. The provider should be flexible, agile, and understand your business requirements.
5. Data is a global market. Most IoT organisations are heads down in implementation and may not have time to know the connectivity industry globally. A provider with this deep understanding of the global playing field can accelerate implementation and avert any performance issues across the globe.

All the above will be available if you purchase your solution from a globally reputable brand for delivering efficiencies to customers. However, not all global providers are alike regarding service or ability to meet your IoT connectivity needs.

Sufficient due diligence is essential to ensuring a connectivity equipment provider is reliable for your company’s real-time data – and enabling that data to be a business asset. Make sure your data is working as hard for you, as you did for it.