Page 28 - FCW, August 30, 2016

MarketInsights
Rugged Computing in Federal Government: More Important and More Useful than Ever
obility continues to grow more important Rugged/Semi-Rugged Use is Growing
for federal agencies across the board. More More than two-thirds of respondents indicated rugged or agencies are opting for semi-rugged or semi-rugged devices were important, and 97 percent expected ruggedized mobile devices for everyone from the importance of rugged or semi-rugged devices to grow
executives to field personnel. A recent Panasonic survey over the next two years. Respondents in nearly all roles
of federal users and contractors underscores the need for secure, progressive, feature-rich rugged devices that continue to evolve to meet federal agency needs.
The survey found the majority of agencies expect the use of handheld devices—such as smartphones, tablets and laptop computers—to continue increasing significantly over the next two years. Not only do users demand it, but agency mission priorities are changing in ways that require handheld use. Other factors include the growth of the Bring-Your-Own- Device (BYOD) movement and telework.
already use or are interested in using rugged or semi-rugged devices, which was somewhat surprising. Personnel in the field, significant numbers of remote workers, IT personnel, executives and contractors also rely on rugged devices, but that was expected.
When asked to rank preference of form factor for rugged and semi-rugged devices, handhelds/smartphones, tablets and lap- tops ranked similarly. While this ranking isn’t likely to change in the next two years, respondents indicated a slight preference for the handheld/smartphone form factor in the future.
When deciding on a rugged or semi-rugged device, the most important feature for agency personnel was reliability. That’s followed relatively equally by price, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), size, processor performance and battery life. Close behind were weight, operating system and display.
It makes sense that reliability led the feature ranking,
given the requirement for always-on connectivity and access, especially in defense situations. Military personnel in the field, for example, must remain connected even when traveling in remote areas. These devices must also remain reliable in the face of difficult conditions, such as dust, moisture, shock and extreme temperatures. One good rule of thumb: If a device meets Mil-STD-810G and the manufacturer has third party validation of all Mil-Spec claims using a reputable facility
like Southwest Research Institute (SWRI), it can probably withstand the harshest conditions.
Processor performance, weight and display options also
are critical. Balancing form factor with the fastest processor possible can be tricky, but it’s important; especially if the device will be used to run multiple applications. Getting the most powerful processor makes sense. At the very least, consider a dual or quad processor with advanced power management.
While rugged devices are generally a bit heavier than their commercial counterparts, it’s important to consider the way the devices will be used and the environment in which they’re being to determine maximum acceptable weight. When it
SPONSORED REPORT
47%
15%
12%
13%
12%
USER DEMAND
CHANGE IN AGENCY MISSION PRIORITIES
USE OF BYOD TELEWORK OTHER
What have been the major drivers for any changes in usage patterns?
These findings corroborate existing research on the importance of mobility in government. A Meritalk survey found about half of government managers believe mobile technology contributes significantly to productivity.
A Market Connections PulsePoll found 86 percent of federal decision-makers believe mobile devices are critical to their jobs.