You can't afford for business to stop when you're on the move

WIRELESS technology and mobile working has revolutionised the way we do business - delivering increased productivity and revenue benefits to many organisations.

Driven by the growth of telecoms networks and a reduction in costs, hardware such as laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and satellite navigation systems is now an affordable and viable option for businesses of all sizes.

Large companies have used the technology for years, but many small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are now realising they can save time and money by equipping their out-of-office staff with technology that allows them to download and send e-mails.

Mobile working tools are now seen as vital for the successful running of a business - as they allow staff access to information at any time of day from wherever they may be located.

The technology is especially useful for travelling salesmen or engineers and for staff who split their time between home and office working.

Research from the Economist Intelligence Unit, the world's foremost provider of country, industry and management analysis, found that increased productivity levels was the key reason for having mobile solutions - with 85 per cent stating it cut "dead time" while travelling.

One firm reaping the benefits is Glasgow-based Total PDA, which has seen its sales jump 1399 per cent in its first three years by specialising in mobile working tools. As a result, the company has picked up a number of accolades, including being named the fastest-growing technology company in Scotland in the Sunday Times FastTrack 100 list.

The business is run by self-confessed tech-head Mark Antliff. "this sector has really taken off in the last 12 months as improving technolgy means PDAs and GPS satellite navigation systems are within reach of most SMEs," he says.

"Businesses today have so many people out of the office at any one time that it is very difficult to retain them as part of an effective team.

"Our mobile communications systems allow people to keep in touch with their office, retrieve e-mail on the move and navigate their way easily to theit next appointment."

A key tip for SMEs is to not get confused with all the jargon sounding mobile technologies. When buying new mobile tools for your workforce, consider the individual needs of your employees first and then select the most appropriate equipment.

Another piece of advice is not to go for the cheapest option. Don't be stingy, as cut-price or hand-me-down portables don't cut it in the corporate world and will cost youmore in support and downtime in the long-term.

It is also key for SMEs to choose wisely when selecting a company to supply mobile devices. Times are tough, budgets are shrinking and it is vital that a business gets expertise and maximum value for its money.

Many SMEs are wary of new technology, fearing the damaging effect it may have on face-to-face interaction. However, experts stress that mobile working should not be a substitute for meetings with colleague and customers, but should assist in the day-to-day running of the business and improve productivity of staff working out in the field.