Why Connectivity Matters
Why Connectivity Matters
In this new age of technology, the Internet of Things (or IoT for short… this is just the term used for portable devices that can connect to wireless internet) opens up a world of possibilities for large and small businesses alike. Everyone expects to be connected everywhere they go. Think about it. The last time you went into a coffee shop, restaurant, retail store, airport… and let’s say you were in a black hole of cell service, and for some reason, the establishment either didn’t have Wifi, or it wasn’t working. You feel lost. Maybe panicked. Connectivity is important to customers now, and will continue to be important as new technologies come on the market.
Most devices that are manufactured today have the capability of connecting to the internet wirelessly and transmitting data that adds tremendous value to consumers and businesses. Whether you are sending transaction data or you’re fulfilling reservations on restaurant service platforms such as OpenTable, internet connectivity has streamlined operations not only for small restaurants and retail stores but also multi-unit brands.
This tells us one thing: new IoT ecosystems can only run at the speed that there is connectivity. Many times, connectivity is an afterthought for operators, only to realize that their wireless infrastructure doesn’t support their needs. This can mean costly retrofitting and downtime.
More businesses are moving towards creating an environment from the start that will support the use of handhelds and tablets to automate day-to-day tasks.
Starting with Reliable Connectivity
When moving daily manual tasks to a digital workflow, connectivity is the foundation on which these systems are built. This starts with an enterprise-grade infrastructure that will be robust for not only your employees to have access to applications that will make their job easier, but also for your customers as well. This includes your data cabling, firewall/security appliances, and wireless infrastructure.
A reliable and high performing system shouldn’t be installed by just anyone. Having a reliable system where dozens if not hundreds of users are going to be connecting to your network means having professionals that can do a needs assessment and determine if your current infrastructure is adequate. Only then can you assess how much hardware, bandwidth, and ongoing service will be necessary to sustain internet traffic. Starting with a solid infrastructure is key.
What happens when there is an outage?
Having a reliable network means more than just having a strong signal and enough bandwidth. Outages happen, and if the local area network goes down for whatever reason, you need to have internet backup in order to stay connected.
Whether it is an outage caused by the cable company or your equipment suddenly malfunctions, we know your business can’t afford to have an internet outage. Too many internal processes are tied to cloud connectivity, and this means a real hit to the bottom line if your store loses connectivity.
Downtime is a concern across all business types, but there is no need to worry if you plan correctly by implementing a redundant connectivity system.If connectivity is tightly tied to the bottom line of your business, a 4G failover system is a way to ensure you can sleep well at night. When in doubt, cellular data saves the day.
Implement the Right Systems Today
Multi-unit restaurant and retail operators want to be working on how they can improve the overall restaurant experience and offer a better product. Connectivity issues should be the least of their worries.
That’s why it’s important for operators to think seriously when considering connectivity within their locations. How important is reliable connectivity to the overall operations of the business? What will you do in a worst-case scenario when these systems fail?
We help our customers assess their technology needs from the start and plan for growth. From the first location, to the hundredth location, we are always thinking about strategy and acting as a true technology consultant. Newgentek takes pride in the fact that we get to know your individual business goals first, before we make recommendations on the technology you need. We aren’t just an AV company. We aren’t just an IT company. We are a partner every step of the way.