At its most elemental level, Wireless as a Service (WaaS) can be described as a managed wireless network service provided by an outside firm under a fee-based arrangement.
From ITS’ perspective, WaaS should be a fully managed service with all infrastructure (access points, controllers, switches, etc.) and complete management of the network covered under the monthly agreement.
A decade ago, Wireless as a Service wasn’t even a blip on the radar for most companies. However, even then, savvy business leaders recognized they could partner with wireless network experts to preserve cash flow and have their commercial wireless (aka Wi-Fi) solutions professionally managed.
Security & Speed
It frees organizations from the hassles of managing the network for optimal efficiency, security, speed, and signal strength.
Easy Management
WaaS is just as flexible and accommodating as a company-managed wireless network without the need for in-house staff management.
Range & Coverage
It can be deployed indoors, outside, or both and can carry for hundreds of feet or farther without significant signal loss.
Enables Digital Transformation
WaaS can be an essential complement to digital transformation, imparting nimbleness, scalability, and stability to company networks.
Although WaaS enhances productivity for many firms, it is exceptionally valuable for firms where secure, reliable network service is paramount. These include avoiding or eliminating dead zones, overcoming signal transmission challenges like brick walls, and other potential problems. With WaaS, all of these concerns are handled by the provider.
Following are four top industries in which companies experience elevated benefit through WaaS:
Modern manufacturers rely on wireless networks for a broad array of capabilities, from inventory scanners and VoIP phones and badges to wireless printing on the production floor. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) networks also rely on wireless. Yet, while most firms have significant industrial and technical expertise on hand, staff lack the time and/or skillsets to manage wireless networks.
For decades, banks and financial service firms have recognized the value of wireless technology to reach customers more quickly, empower staff with tablet-based lobby service and speed up network deployments. However, the FDIC has warned financial institutions they are responsible for mitigating any risk associated with their wireless networks. A WaaS provider such as IT Solutions assumes those risks for them.
For hospitals and other healthcare providers, processes from imaging to lab work are dependent upon wireless networks, yet many do not have wireless networking experts on their teams. WaaS ensures someone else is responsible for network continuity and signal strength.
For HRIs or any firm subject to compliance mandates, maintaining secure, reliable network service — and having a third-party management firm that can confirm it — will reassure shareholders and regulators while minimizing the risk and/or severity of violations or fines.
Wireless as a Service also offers numerous quantifiable benefits over other Wi-Fi deployment models. These include:
Eliminate Unpredictable Upfront Capital Expenses
WaaS includes all necessary hardware and software as well as network setup and configuration, remote monitoring, reporting, and maintenance upgrades.
Utilize the Latest Technologies
As network technologies continue to evolve, WaaS clients benefit from hardware refreshes, avoiding service issues common with obsolete
Avoid the Complexity and Expense of Site Surveys
With an all-in-one service like WaaS, the site survey cost is not an upfront fee.
Eliminate Expensive Service Calls
With WaaS, if problems arise during installation, the provider troubleshoots and resolves them to ensure the strongest signal possible. Unlike installation-only projects, where the wireless service firm leaves after confirming signal continuity and strength and then charges to resolve problems, WaaS eliminates fees for any subsequent troubleshooting. Finally, since the provider has a vested interest in avoiding a no-charge, on-site visit, WaaS providers strive to minimize issues and make uptime a top priority.
To explore how your firm can realize maximum velocity and productivity with the help of WaaS, we invite current clients to schedule a consultation with your Strategic Advisor or reach out to our Business Development team if you’re not a client but interested in how WaaS can help your company.
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