Mobile Applications that Blend Data and Services from Multiple Sources
Research In Motion's co- CEOs Mike Lasaridis and Jim Balsillie recently stated that software depth, breadth and integration will drive future device sales, noting the potential that lies in applications blending data and services from multiple sources. This is important. I have been writing for some time about convergent devices, however, it is most often in the context of mobile devices and hardware accessories like GPS, bar code readers, digital cameras, voice memos, WiFi and other Bluetooth devices. The blending of data and services from multiple sources combined with convergent hardware is even much bigger. Let's think about a simple scenario - Field service technician (X) orders a part for a furnace online from his smartphone . He will complete the job when it arrives. The part is shipped and an alert email notifies field service technician X which day it will arrive. Field service technician X notifies the customer via email about the status and notes this in