Mobile technology has revolutionized the way people communicate with others. Any device that can wirelessly connect to a network is considered a mobile gadget, including smartphones, tablets and even some laptops. The technology enables a host of applications, such as cloud computing, eCommerce and online learning. Those applications provide benefits for organizations, individuals and societies alike.
Smartphones and mobile devices can help save businesses money and time through streamlined processes, applications that automate manual data entry tasks and other apps that cut down on tedious administrative activities. They can also help improve communication between employees, whether in different locations or departments. Instant messaging apps allow managers, teams and individual colleagues to relay quick ad-hoc questions or ideas. Video conferencing tools can support more collaborative meetings between people in different buildings, cities or countries.
In healthcare, mobile technology can save physicians and clinicians time by enabling them to access patient records at the point of care. The technology can also empower them to make more informed decisions with real-time data that can reduce the likelihood of errors and enhance patient safety. The technology can also enable physicians to collaborate with healthcare experts from around the world through telemedicine services for on-the-spot consultations, which can be more convenient than traveling to another hospital.
However, when employees rely too heavily on mobile devices, they can become distracted by notifications and apps and lose the ability to focus on their work. Additionally, the high purchase, repair and data plan costs can burden users financially. They can also be susceptible to hackers and phishers and may lose their privacy by unintentionally giving away information to unscrupulous entities.