CIOs, Service Managers and IT decision makers descended on a jam-packed Microsoft New Zealand yesterday, to hear how best to utilise mobile technology and rugged computing.

For organisations constantly addressing the ongoing challenges associated with doing business in the field, the Windows 8-powered Panasonic Toughpad isn’t just tough, it’s Kiwi Tough.

Engineered with productivity in mind, the US Military certified devices compliment life on the road, banishing the previous limitations which plagued outdoor workers.

“For over 25 years, the Panasonic Toughbook range of devices have been deployed in the harshest of environments across the world, and continue to excel,” said Darryn Smith - Toughbook and Mobility Channel Manager, Comworth.

“The devices are based around high levels of reliability, quality and durability.”

Offering unrivalled shock and vibration resistance, high sensitivity wireless antennas allows for greater coverage and speed, ensuring maximum productivity for workers away from the office.

With a battery life of up to 10 hours, Panasonic Toughpads can operate in extreme temperatures, ranging from -10C to 50C climates in an all-weather resistant case.

Such levels of innovation aside however, Smith was quick to remind the audience that despite New Zealand’s growing reputation as early adopters across the world, when it came to implementing mobile technology in business, the industry surprisingly lags somewhat behind.

“Recent Unisys and IDC studies show that while Kiwis were quick to move into the tablet space, many have not moved beyond the early stages of mobility to embrace the technology as a key part of their business,” he adds.

Mobility…

Echoing Smith’s comments, Microsoft New Zealand’s Windows Devices Specialist Nathan Mercer offered an in-depth insight into why Kiwi businesses should implement mobile solutions within the workplace.

“Mobility is one of the big buzzwords in the industry at the moment,” said Mercer, who boasts over a decade of experience at Microsoft’s Kiwi division.

“When I talk to a lot of decision makers and CIOs, mobility is one of the key things that are on the top of their mind.

“Looking around the room it’s clear to see the world has changed; employees and businesses are now demanding mobility to get away from their desk and service customers in new ways.”

Working from the mantra that productivity isn’t achieved by simply “throwing devices at your staff”, Mercer explained to the country’s key decision-makers the benefits of finding the right devices to help drive business growth.

“We’re seeing customers coming back and examining the Windows solution,” he added. “Businesses need to find the right devices and apps which can deliver a fluid experience within their workforce, which ultimately untethers your staff and connects you with your customers.

“It’s clear that mobile has now become the new normal, kickstarted by the ‘always-on’ connectivity. It represents a 180 degree shift in the market as people are becoming mobile first, which is one of the key reasons why Microsoft as an organisation is so serious about mobile technology.”

Given the majority of workers don’t spend all day behind their desks, Mercer discussed how the Panasonic Toughbook range can help move mobile technology to the next level.

“A lot of people are saying the PC is dead but by looking at Panasonic’s range of devices, it’s clear we have a device which isn’t just for people to consume, it can create great thing as well and offer both consumption and innovation.”

A device built to construct and communicate on the go, the Panasonic Toughpad overpowers the many challenges which face outdoor workers, and as proved over 25 years of market dominance, it can stand the test of time.

For more information regarding the Panasonic Toughbook range click here