Mobile data terminals (MDTs) are an indispensable tool for modern police forces and other emergency responders. However, MDTs can be quite expensive to purchase and maintain. Here are some tips for reducing the costs associated with MDTs in your organization.
Research Your Options Thoroughly Before Purchasing
The first step is doing your homework before making any purchases. Get quotes from multiple vendors and compare prices and contract terms. Consider both purchase and subscription pricing models to see which offers more long-term value. Look at the total cost of ownership over the expected lifespan of the devices, including hardware, software, maintenance, and support fees. Leverage competitive bidding to get vendors to offer their best possible pricing.
Opt for Consumer-Grade Hardware When Possible
Many MDTs are built to military-grade standards, which improves durability but also inflates the costs. For some use cases, off-the-shelf consumer electronics like smartphones or tablets may be perfectly suitable and far more budget-friendly. While consumer devices may not stand up to rough use as well, their low price makes them more disposable and easy to replace when needed.
Use Vehicle Docking Stations Rather Than Permanently Installed Hardware
Rather than installing custom hardware consoles in vehicles, use standardized docking stations to secure the MDT units. This allows the devices to be quickly detached and reassigned to different vehicles as needed. Standardized docks are cheaper than custom console installations and enable more flexibility in your fleet.
Leverage BYOD Policies for Some Users
Consider instituting bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies that allow some users to utilize their personal smartphones for MDT applications. The organization can then subsidize a portion of the employee’s smartphone bill each month rather than supplying the hardware. Users are often happy to use their own devices. Make sure to have clear BYOD policy guidelines in place first regarding security, device standards, and support.
Use Rugged Cases for Consumer Grade Devices
For users that are issued standard consumer smartphones or tablets, outfit these devices with rugged cases to improve durability. Rugged cases are far cheaper than inherently rugged electronics. Enable the devices to be used in rain or other harsh conditions while minimizing physical damage if dropped.
Standardize on a Unified Device Platform
Selecting a single hardware platform and operating system for all your MDT deployments can help significantly reduce costs. Standardization allows bulk purchasing discounts. It also simplifies app development, security patching, device management, support, and technician training. Avoid supporting multiple platforms if possible.
Leverage Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Use a robust MDM solution to remotely manage devices, push app and settings updates, enforce security protocols, wipe lost devices, and monitor asset utilization. MDM helps keep devices up-to-date and secure without hands-on support, lowering management overhead. Implement access controls through MDM as well.
Extend Refresh Cycles for Hardware
Rather than replacing MDT devices every 2-3 years, try to stretch refresh cycles closer to 4-5 years. Performing RAM and storage upgrades during the lifecycle can help prolong usefulness. And devices that are still functioning adequately even at 5+ years may not necessarily need replacement either. Get the maximum feasible lifespan out of hardware.
By carefully researching options, utilizing lower-cost hardware, standardizing deployments, and managing assets efficiently, organizations can make their MDT solutions much more affordable while still meeting operational needs. Following these tips can significantly reduce the costs associated with MDTs over time.
