RuggON identifies five common challenges that organizations may encounter when deploying rugged technology in demanding operational environments. Read more >>
These include selecting devices for specific conditions, integrating equipment with existing systems, maintaining connectivity, supporting frontline users, and managing device fleets over the long term.
Addressing these factors during planning and implementation can help limit deployment delays, reduce downtime, and support effective use of rugged devices.
Selecting Rugged Devices for Specific Operating Environments
Rugged devices are available in a range of configurations, durability levels, and feature sets. Equipment selection should therefore account for the specific environmental conditions encountered during operations.
Extreme temperatures, high levels of vibration, hazardous locations, dust and water exposure, shock, and contact with chemicals can all influence device requirements.
Conducting an environmental risk assessment allows organizations to establish these requirements before selecting hardware. Devices can then be evaluated according to the conditions in which they will operate.
Ruggedization options and documented compliance with requirements such as MIL-STD-810H testing and relevant IP ratings should also form part of the selection process. Testing devices within the intended working environment before a full deployment can provide additional insight into hardware suitability and identify potential issues at an early stage.
Integrating Rugged Devices with Existing Systems
System compatibility is another important consideration when introducing rugged technology. Devices may need to operate specialized applications while connecting with established enterprise resource planning (ERP), warehouse management systems (WMS), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) infrastructure.
Integration complexity can contribute to implementation delays and inconsistent data between connected platforms.
Selecting devices that support operating systems such as Windows, Android, and Linux can help organizations align new equipment with their existing software environments. Rugged solutions offering software development kits (SDKs) and application programming interfaces (APIs) can also support the development of custom applications and integrations.
Early collaboration between information technology and operations teams can help establish system requirements and testing procedures before deployment. This approach allows potential compatibility issues to be identified before devices enter operational service.
Maintaining Connectivity in Remote Locations
Rugged computing equipment is frequently deployed in locations where reliable communications infrastructure may not be available. Remote worksites, underground facilities, and mobile field operations can all experience intermittent or limited connectivity.
Devices supporting multiple communications technologies can provide organizations with greater flexibility in these environments. Depending on operational requirements, connectivity options may include Wi-Fi 6/7, 4G/5G, GPS, and satellite communications.
Edge computing capabilities can also support operations where continuous network access is unavailable. Data can be processed locally while a device is offline and synchronized when connectivity is restored.
Workflows should also be designed to accommodate temporary network interruptions. Establishing procedures that allow personnel and devices to continue operating during periods of limited connectivity can reduce unnecessary disruption.
Supporting Frontline Personnel and Device Adoption
The effectiveness of rugged technology also depends on how personnel interact with deployed equipment. Complex functionality, unfamiliar operating procedures, and insufficient training can affect user adoption and limit the benefits of new devices.
Hands-on training based on specific job roles and realistic operating scenarios can help personnel become familiar with equipment before using it in the field.
Device design can further simplify operation. Intuitive user interfaces, glove-compatible touchscreens, and programmable keys can make rugged equipment easier to use in demanding environments.
Ongoing technical support should continue after deployment. Collecting feedback from frontline personnel can help organizations identify usability issues and make improvements to operational procedures and the overall user experience.
Managing Rugged Equipment Throughout Its Service Life
Long-term device management is another important element of rugged technology deployment. Although rugged equipment is designed for difficult conditions, sustained use in harsh environments can increase the risk of wear.
Organizations managing large device fleets must therefore plan for hardware inspections, software updates, repairs, and equipment replacement.
Preventive maintenance schedules can help identify potential hardware issues while ensuring software remains current. Selecting vendors that offer extended warranties, on-site repairs, and global support services can also assist organizations with the long-term management of deployed equipment.
Mobile device management (MDM) platforms provide an additional means of administering deployed equipment. These systems can be used to monitor device health remotely and distribute software updates across device fleets.
A Structured Approach to Rugged Technology Deployment
Successful rugged technology implementation requires consideration of the complete operational environment rather than hardware durability alone.
Environmental assessment, system integration, connectivity planning, workforce training, and long-term equipment management should all form part of the deployment process. Evaluating these factors before a full rollout can help organizations identify potential challenges and establish suitable procedures for maintaining and supporting deployed equipment.
By examining these five areas, RuggON highlights practical considerations for deploying rugged devices in challenging environments.
