We have been on a roll this week discussing cell phones and finding the right carriers. Once all of that is settled, you want to make your actual device as efficient as possible. The longer the battery life in your cell phone, the more efficient (and less stressed) your techs will be!
It can be hard to keep mobile devices going all day out in the field. They are being used to time in, to discover routes between jobs, to send information back to the office, and many other things. I struggle to keep my battery going throughout my day, and I don’t do half the things our customers do with their phones. Plus, if I forget to charge it the night before I’m really screwed.
Jonathan Blum, freelance writer and principal of Blumsday LLC, discusses three ways to help preserve battery life while your guys are out in the field.
Change your device’s settings – When you device sends or receives information, it is draining the battery life. Blum suggests disabling automatic email fetching and application that update throughout the day. Also, avoid location-based apps such as Google Maps, or at least make sure to turn off your GPS after you’ve finished using those apps.- Carry a back-up power source – It can be difficult to find plug-ins out in the field for your phone or tablet charger. A portable or snap-on battery are great options. They plug in to your phone without needing to be plugged into an outlet as well. It keeps the device portable, while still charging it.
- Charge while you drive – carefully – Connect USB adaptors up to your vehicle’s power outlet (like the lighter). This is an easy way to charge while your techs are driving between different locations.