The power of mobile applications lies in giving field workers access to data that already resides on existing enterprise systems. Compared to initial attempts to use mobile technology in the field, which created new tasks and applications, this model requires a relatively small and less risky investment. This is because it simply extends the benefits of existing and proven investments in enterprise systems.

However, mobile enablement is not a technological “silver bullet” which can be unleashed simply through the purchase of enough PDAs and mobile phones to outfit the workforce. Rather it involves a series of business integration projects that require careful mapping onto a mobile platform suited for the precise nature of each mobile worker’s role. In addition, operationally supporting mobile solutions, devices and their users in the field represents an added dimension of capabilities not normally found in the majority of large enterprises today.