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| | BY MICHAEL ANTONIAK
With wireless convergence vendors still refining their offerings, and few MLSs set up for wireless access, you still have time to investigate your options. Questions to consider:
Who will be your service providers? Wireless service includes two components: the carrier that delivers your link to the wireless world and the vendor that makes it possible for you to retrieve MLS data anywhere, in real time. Ask around: Who’s doing what, and when it will be available in your area?
How much do you want in your handheld? Consider practicality. Screen size and data entry techniques impose limits on how much you can do with these units. Assess your primary and secondary needs in the field, and start talking to vendors and cell phone providers about the services they offer, or soon will.
What will you do with a combo device? Wireless solutions seem dazzling, but before you invest any money, decide what value they offer for you—a streamlined mobile communications center? Accessibility?
What will it cost? Pricing is still up in the air for both wireless hardware and support services. But once your options become clear, you’ll need to decide whether the convenience and added functionality of an all-in-one device is worth the cost to your business. Then again, depending on how the devices catch on, you might find there’s an even greater cost to not jumping on the latest technology bandwagon. | | |
