The ultimate guide to Business Mobile
The ultimate guide to Business Mobile
Introduction
With today’s employees working from any number of different locations, whether that’s on-site, at home or out on the move, mobile technology has become an essential tool for companies of all sizes.
But how do you know what kind of mobile technology is right for your business? What does good look like when it comes to devices, plans and service? And how do you go about choosing your supplier?
This in-depth business mobile guide will help you answer all these questions and more, giving you an understanding of all the different options out there to help you make an informed decision.
We’ll cover:
- The different types of business mobile solutions out there, how they compare and what they can do for your business
- The essential things to look out for when choosing business mobile networks, devices, plans or apps and how to know what’s right for your employees
- The kind of questions you should ask any potential business mobile provider before you agree to partner with them and much more
Contents
Why businesses need mobile technology
Mobile technology is no longer a luxury – it's a necessity. Here are some of the main reasons businesses need mobile technology and the benefits it can bring when you get it right.
Enhanced
communication
Business mobiles enable seamless communication between employees, clients and partners. Features like instant messaging and video conferencing keep teams connected and collaborative wherever they are.
Increased
productivity
Mobile devices allow employees to work from anywhere, increasing overall productivity across multiple locations. People can attend virtual meetings, respond to emails and access company resources without being tethered to a desk.
More
flexibility
Mobile technology supports remote work, which has become increasingly important in recent years. Employees can work from home, during commutes or while travelling, making businesses more adaptable to changing circumstances.
Improved
customer service
Mobile tools can help businesses respond to customer queries and issues more quickly. Customer relationship management (CRM) apps and support platforms on mobile devices ensure timely and effective customer care.
Understanding the different types of business mobile devices and plans
Smartphones
Essential for communication, email and various business apps, they offer a wide range of functionalities, from basic calls and messages to advanced business applications.
Tablets
Useful for presentations, note-taking and accessing documents on the go, they are more portable than laptops but offer larger screens than smartphones, making them ideal for visual tasks.
Laptops
Portable but powerful and suitable for more intensive tasks, laptops provide full computing power and are ideal for tasks that require substantial processing capabilities like data analysis or graphic design.
Data plans
Focused on internet usage and essential for businesses that rely heavily on online activities, they provide the necessary data allowance for browsing, emailing and using web-based applications.
Voice plans
Ideal for businesses that require a lot of calling, these plans offer ample minutes for voice calls, though some providers offer unlimited minutes and texts as standard in their mobile plans anyway.
Mixed plans
These combine different elements like data and voice or data and text, depending on your business needs, giving you the flexibility to choose a plan that reflects the way your people use their mobile devices.
The essential features of business mobile
There are plenty of things to think about when looking for business mobile devices and plans, but these are some of the most important features you need to consider.
Battery life
To stay productive throughout the day, employees need devices that can last through long meetings, travel and intensive usage without frequent recharging.
Security features
Look for devices with things like built-in encryption and biometric authentication, as well as continuous software updates to make sure you’re protected from the latest threats.
Connectivity
Fast and stable internet connections like 4G and 5G are crucial for real-time collaboration and access to cloud services, so make sure the connectivity can handle your needs.
Storage
Ensure the devices have enough internal storage and support for external storage options if needed – you need to have enough capacity for all those business applications and data.
Types of business SIMs and tariffs
When it comes to your overall business mobile solution, the SIM and tariff you choose is hugely important. Here are the main options out there and how they differ from each other.
Standard SIMs
Advantages include widespread compatibility and lower initial costs. Disadvantages may include limited data options and less tailored business features.
Managed SIMs
Advantages include enhanced security, remote management capabilities and often higher data allowances. Disadvantages might include higher costs and potential compatibility issues with older devices.
Data-only SIMs
Ideal for specific uses like tablets or internet of things devices, offering high data allowances but limited voice and SMS capabilities.
Shared data plans
Allow pooling of data across multiple devices or users, providing cost efficiency but requiring careful management to avoid going over your allowance.
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A reliable mobile network is critical for keeping people productive and effective in the modern business world. Here are some of the things you should consider when choosing yours.
Coverage
Ensure the network covers all areas where your business operates. Check for strong signal strength in key locations such as office buildings, employee homes and common travel destinations.
Speed
Look for providers that offer high-speed data connections. Fast data speeds are essential for today’s business tasks like video conferencing, cloud computing and large file transfers.
Reliability
Choose a network with a reputation for minimal downtime and strong customer support. Consistent connectivity and prompt resolution of issues are vital for maintaining business continuity.
Selecting the right mobile devices for your business depends on a variety of factors based on your unique business needs and how your people work. Here are some of the main things to consider.
User needs
Consider the specific needs of your employees. Field workers might need rugged devices that can withstand harsh environments, while office-based employees may prefer sleek, lightweight models.
Compatibility
Ensure the devices are compatible with your existing systems and applications. Check for compatibility with your company's email system, CRM software and other essential tools.
Budget
Balance between cost and functionality to get the best value. While it might be tempting to go for the latest models, consider the overall cost-effectiveness and the specific features that your business requires.
Again, selecting the right mobile plan to go with your devices starts with looking at your business and your employees and what will be right for them. These are some of the key factors to bear in mind.
Data needs
Estimate how much data your business will use monthly. Consider the activities that consume the most data, such as streaming, downloading large files and using cloud applications.
Calling needs
Determine the number of minutes required for calls. Assess the volume of voice communication within the company and with external parties. Some providers offer unlimited minutes.
Flexibility
Look for plans that allow adjustments as your business grows. Ensure the plan can scale up or down based on changing needs, such as adding new users or adjusting data limits.
Mobile apps can significantly enhance business productivity. And there are a range of different categories of apps depending on what you need. Here are some of the most important ones to consider.
Communication apps
Tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack facilitate instant messaging, video conferencing and collaboration among team members.
Productivity apps
Solutions like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace provide essential tools for document creation, spreadsheets and presentations.
Security apps
Apps that provide additional security layers for mobile devices, such as antivirus software, VPNs and mobile device management (MDM) solutions.
Business mobile security essentials
Security is a top priority for business mobiles, especially when you have people working in various, often quite public locations. Consider the following features when you’re making your decision.
Encryption
Encryption ensures data is protected during transmission, preventing unauthorised access, whether that’s emails, files or communications.
Virtual private network (VPN)
A VPN offers secure remote access, creating a secure connection over the internet and protecting data from eavesdropping and tampering.
Regular updates
Keep devices and apps updated to protect against vulnerabilities, with regular software updates to patch security flaws and enhance the performance of mobile devices.
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How business mobile can help save costs
Business mobiles don’t just help productivity – they can also lead to significant cost savings. Here are some of the ways they can do that.
Increased efficiency
Mobile tools can streamline operations, reducing wasted time and resources. Apps for project management, time tracking and expense reporting enhance efficiency and productivity.
Reduced office space needs
Fewer employees in the office means less need for large office spaces. Remote work enabled by mobile technology can reduce overhead costs associated with maintaining physical office space.
Lower communication costs
Mobile plans can be more cost-effective than traditional phone systems. Businesses can save on long-distance calls and use data-based communication tools like VoIP (voice over internet protocol).
Business mobile vs. consumer mobile
Understanding the differences between business and consumer mobile plans, and what those differences mean for your business, can help you make informed decisions.
Customisation
Business plans often offer more customisation options. They can be tailored to meet specific needs, such as data sharing among employees or specialised security features.
Support
Business plans typically include dedicated customer support. Providers often offer priority assistance and account managers to address business-specific issues.
Features
Enhanced security and management features are common in business plans. These include mobile device management (MDM), secure access controls and compliance with industry regulations. Though some of these features may come at an additional cost.
What to look for in a business mobile provider
When selecting a business mobile provider, it’s hard to now what good looks like. Here are some of the main things you should consider.
Reputation
Research the provider's reputation for reliability and customer service. Look for reviews and testimonials from other businesses to gauge their experiences.
Service level agreements (SLAs)
Ensure they offer strong SLAs with clear terms. SLAs should outline performance metrics, support response times and penalties for not meeting service standards.
Flexibility
Look for providers that offer flexible plans to accommodate your business needs. Ensure they can adapt to changes, such as scaling services up or down based on your business's growth or seasonal demands.
What to watch out for in a business mobile provider
Along with potentially good traits, there are also a number of potentially negative ones to be mindful of too. Be cautious of the following when choosing a provider.
Hidden fees
Ensure all costs are transparent and there are no hidden fees. Review the contract carefully for any extra charges, such as early termination fees or additional service costs.
Lock-in contracts
Avoid long-term contracts that lock you in without the flexibility to change. Look for providers that offer flexible contract terms or trial periods.
Poor customer support
Ensure the provider has a strong customer support system in place. Test their support channels before committing to assess their responsiveness and effectiveness.
What to look for in a business mobile
service level agreement
We mentioned service level agreements (SLAs) above. So let’s go into a bit more detail about what you should expect to see.
Performance metrics
Clear metrics for service performance and uptime. These metrics help you hold the provider accountable for their service quality.
Support terms
Detailed terms for customer support and response times. The SLA should specify the level of support you can expect, including response times for different types of issues.
Penalties
Penalties for not meeting the agreed-upon service levels. These penalties incentivise the provider to maintain high service standards and offer compensation if they fall short.
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Useful questions to ask a business mobile provider
- What is the coverage like in my area?
- What security measures are in place?
- What are the terms of your SLA?
- Can the plan be adjusted as my business grows?
- What kind of customer support do you offer?
- How extensive is your coverage in the areas where my business operates?
- Can I customise tariffs to suit different usage patterns within my team?
- What are the data limits and speeds provided under different tariffs?
- How are international roaming charges structured and which countries are covered?
- What are the contract terms and how flexible are they if our needs change?
- What level of support is available for business customers and how responsive is your customer service team?
- What security measures are in place to protect business data and devices?
- Are there any additional services or features bundled with the tariffs that could benefit my business?
- What are the penalties for terminating my current contract early?
- Can I keep my existing phone numbers when switching?
- What assistance do you provide during the transition period?
- What guarantees do you offer regarding service uptime and reliability?
- Will my current devices be compatible with your network and services?
Useful questions to ask a business mobile provider
- What is the coverage like in my area?
- What security measures are in place?
- What are the terms of your SLA?
- Can the plan be adjusted as my business grows?
- What kind of customer support do you offer?
- How extensive is your coverage in the areas where my business operates?
- Can I customise tariffs to suit different usage patterns within my team?
- What are the data limits and speeds provided under different tariffs?
- How are international roaming charges structured and which countries are covered?
- What are the contract terms and how flexible are they if our needs change?
- What level of support is available for business customers and how responsive is your customer service team?
- What security measures are in place to protect business data and devices?
- Are there any additional services or features bundled with the tariffs that could benefit my business?
- What are the penalties for terminating my current contract early?
- Can I keep my existing phone numbers when switching?
- What assistance do you provide during the transition period?
- What guarantees do you offer regarding service uptime and reliability?
- Will my current devices be compatible with your network and services?
Types of mobile device management
When buying business mobiles, it’s not just about the devices and the tariffs. Many providers will offer some kind of management service too, allowing you to reduce the amount of admin (at a cost). Here are some of the different features you might expect to be included.
Basic
- Remote wipe capabilities
- Basic security settings
Enhanced
- Application management
- Device location tracking
- More comprehensive security protocols
Advanced
- Integration with enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions
- Extensive compliance controls
- Detailed reporting capabilities
Recommended apps for business mobiles
There are a whole bunch of different apps you can use to help your people do their jobs more effectively. The possibilities are endless. But these are some of the common ones, based on the different functions and roles they play.
Communication
Slack | Microsoft Teams | Zoom
Productivity
Microsoft Office Suite | Google Workspace | Evernote
Security
Mobile VPNs | Antivirus apps
Expense management
Expensify | Concur
Project management
Trello | Asana | Monday.com
Managing apps on business mobiles
With all these apps your employees will be using, you need a secure and efficient way to manage them. Here are some options that will help you do that.
Mobile device management
(MDM) software
Use MDM solutions to remotely deploy, manage and update apps.
App whitelisting/blacklisting
Control which apps can be installed and used on company devices.
Policy enforcement
Implement policies regarding app usage, updates, and permissions.
Monitoring and reporting
Track app usage and data consumption to ensure compliance with company policies.
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Why choose Virgin Media O2 Business?
Our expert team can help you make the right choice for your organisation
Combining expert advice with commercial flexibility, we use connectivity to solve our customers’ biggest challenges and help them meet and exceed their goals, with the budget they’ve got, in a sustainable way.
We are the UK’s largest mobile network, with 1.7 million connections and 99% coverage across the country. And our in-house team have decades of experience between them, so you’re in good hands.
Whether you just want the latest mobile devices for your teams or you want a fully managed solution where we take care of all the admin for you, we’ve got you covered.
Want to know more? Talk to our team today.
Want to talk business mobile with our expert team?
Small & medium business
(11 - 249 employees)
Call 0800 298 8848
