How To Control Corporate Wireless Costs Are You Overspending in These 4 Areas
As businesses become more reliant on wireless communication, the cost of managing wireless devices continues to grow. For many companies, wireless expenses represent a significant portion of their overall budget. However, with the right approach to managing wireless usage, businesses can save money and avoid overspending. Here are four areas to focus on to control corporate wireless costs:
1. Data Usage
One of the biggest cost drivers for wireless expenses is data usage. Mobile data consumption is increasing rapidly, and it can be difficult for organizations to keep up with the demand. As employees use their mobile devices for work-related activities, the amount of data consumed can quickly spiral out of control.
To control data usage costs, businesses should consider implementing a policy that outlines specific data usage limits for employees. It is also important to monitor usage at the individual level to identify any excessive data usage patterns. Organizations can use analytics tools to track data usage and identify ways to optimize data usage.
Additionally, businesses should look into deploying Wi-Fi connectivity in areas where employees spend the most time, such as offices or conference rooms. This will reduce the amount of data used on cellular networks and provide faster connectivity, resulting in a cost savings.
2. Unused Devices
Another area where businesses can reduce wireless costs is by reviewing their inventory of unused devices. Many companies purchase devices that are never used or have become obsolete. These devices continue to consume wireless services, resulting in unnecessary expenses.
To control these costs, businesses should regularly audit their inventory of wireless devices and identify any unused or unnecessary devices. These devices can then be decommissioned or repurposed, resulting in significant cost savings.
3. International Travel
International travel is another area that can quickly drive up wireless expenses. Employees who travel internationally often need to use data and voice services while abroad. However, these services can be expensive, and if not managed properly, can result in high costs for the organization.
To control international travel costs, businesses should consider purchasing international plans for their employees. These plans typically offer reduced rates for international calls and data usage. Additionally, employees should be informed of the associated costs with international travel and be encouraged to use Wi-Fi whenever possible.
4. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Many organizations allow employees to use their personal devices for work-related activities. While this can result in some cost savings for the organization, it can also lead to increased wireless expenses.
To control BYOD costs, businesses should implement a mobile device management (MDM) solution that allows for policy enforcement and device management. By implementing MDM, businesses can reduce potential security risks and enforce data usage policies that help to avoid overspending. Additionally, companies should consider offering reimbursement programs for employee-owned devices to offset some of the costs associated with BYOD.
Conclusion
Wireless communication has become an essential part of business operations. However, the costs associated with managing wireless expenses can be significant. By focusing on these four areas, organizations can take steps to control wireless costs. From implementing policy for data usage to managing unused devices and controlling international travel costs, businesses can make strides to save money and avoid overspending. With the right precautions, organizations can manage wireless expenses and stay on budget year after year.