As real-world data is entered, the software determines which mobile computing solution is most
likely to help the company reach its goals. Managers can perform what-if analysis by adjusting
assumptions and re-running the simulation. Within this framework, managers will build a business
case that forecasts the costs of each mobile device against the benefits derived over time.
Making Intangibles Tangible
The 90-minute analysis process is very granular. It’s based on the industry segment–because it
simulates the tasks of the workforce—and compares up to ten competing devices.
Once devices are selected, purchase or lease prices are entered, followed by value-added benefits
like no-fault warrantees and on-site support. Intangible factors favoring one vendor over another,
such as incumbency, are added to the data set. The size and rate of the deployment, as well as
details that determine the cost of preparing the units for the workforce are also introduced.
Next the analysis accounts for the likelihood and cost of failure, using your own experience as a
baseline. Somewhat surprisingly, the impact of failure is given less weight than most outside
observers would expect. Reliability is important, but it’s not the only important thing.
