A very detailed book about the possibilities of wireless technology. The subject matter isn't too technical, but the author does an excellent job of explaining how the technology works and show how it is being used.
For people in charge of finding technology to solve problems, this book is a great way to familiarize yourself with the range of what is available today. It also provides some good guesses as to what will be available in the near future
M-Commerce, L-Commerce, things communicating with things
Mobile commerce offers the hope of faster access to information for the consumer. M-Commerce builds on both internet and wireless communication devices. Internet servers push small applications to WiFi devices and these applications, in turn, make information requests through WiFi portals back to the server. The WiFi interface improves speed to acquire information for the consumer increasing the likelihood of a purchase; the WiFi interface can submit billing information for payment processing with one tap to confirm credit card usage for bill payment; a confirmation code is displayed on the WiFi device and used to validate pickup of the merchandise; and speed is the motivating factor like the fast food chain in time performance. If by the middle of the decade, "the only way to reach your customers is via the internet, you'll be limiting your customer base". M-commerce brings the store to the consumer wirelessly and it assists the consumer in price comparison. The consumer can talk directly to the WiFi device reducing time to navigate menu selection. Sophisticated voice recognition software will eliminate the need to display all available choices. Instead, the software will use context and subject matter as it relates to voice interpretation too determine choice.
Location commerce is the result of the law. All cell phones or devices capable of making a call must be capable for an external call center too pinpoint a caller within a few feet. Position based commerce will become the primary source of new business referrals. As the consumer moves from one zone to another information is served up to the WiFi interface from local based directories. The user will enter in what they want and a list of services based on proximity will be offered through their PDA. National chains will be able to offer localized pricing of their products and services. The localized directories will be able to determine availability and make referrals to other stores within a certain mile radius, if the product is unavailable. The idea is that the quicker you get your customer the merchandise, the more you will sell.
A decentralized Transportation Wifi network potentially offers a massive opportunity. Suppose, each car was installed with a WiFi device that could communicate with car around it, accessing: speed, breaking, turning, and sudden stops. Potentially, the Wifi device could stop all accidents involving abrupt slow downs in traffic. Additionally, the auto wifi device could communicate with Wifi portal along the road querying for restaurant prices and availability, sleeping arrangements and prices, and music downloads. Billboards being replaced by high speed Wifi portals and massive internet servers bring services too consumers on the road.
Surprise - the world is going wireless :-)
Surprise - the world is going wireless. Well it's not really a surprise. In the U.S., we're just behind the times. In fact, in most respects related to wireless / mobile connectivity, the U.S. places third behind Asia, and Europe. But, never underestimate America. We've come from behind before and we can do it again. The problem is that the U.S. is PC centric and up until now this has lead to lackluster interest in smartphone and advance mobile communications.
With the oncoming rush of Wi-Max and related technologies, the time to embrace wireless is NOW. Easton's book will help you open your mind to the future of wireless and the possibilities it represents. The book highlights that without going wireless we are still "tied" to our desks - even with laptops. Throughout Going Wireless, next-generation applications are shown, not for technology sake, but for their distinct potential in business.
Divided into three sections, Going Wireless is a most compelling read:
SECTION 1 - USING M-COMMERCE TO OWN YOUR CUSTOMERS AND CLIENTS
SECTION 2 - THE WIRELESS WORKFORCE CONNECTS THE ENTERPRISE
SECTION 3: NEW BUSINESSES, NEW MARKETS, NEW CHALLENGES
For even more information, check out Going Wireless' website.
Michael Davis, Byvation
---> To swing for the fence, entrepreneurs must avoid the shark-infested red water and sail into the deep blue sea.
Emerging Technology - New Opportunities
Easton takes a very difficult subject and pieces together how wireless will make our lives simpler and faster still. We can get what we want, when we want it. We can make an order from a wireless hand held device and pick it up within minutes.This book is made to order if you want to see where wireless is going. Easton is well researched and writes to inform.