By Mary A. Gates, CFSSP, CHPA-III
What does the end of 3G wireless technology mean for your organization? Any devices currently using 3G will go dark at the end of 2020 or early 2022[1]. If you have Alarm Systems, ATMs, Cash Recyclers, Smart Safes, or similar equipment running on 3G, have you enacted a plan to upgrade to 4G before this occurs?
GENERAL INFORMATION
The time to sunset 3G-supported technology has come. Businesses failing to do so risk disruption. By transitioning to a current generation technology, such as 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) or 5G, organizations create opportunities for better customer experiences and increased efficiency. The right transition strategy can help a business put into place solutions to improve operations, help drive faster business decisions, improve customer service and more. Failure to fully migrate will cause disruptions in mission-critical functions which can ultimately affect operations, customer experience, and brand reputation. It is urgent that, if they have not done so, organizations begin now to help ensure business continuity.
IMPLEMENT A THOUGHTFUL ACTION PLAN
Each business will need to develop and implement a comprehensive action plan to ensure it is “business as usual” when the migration occurs. This includes choosing the right solutions using strategies driven by wireless, IoT and global needs.
1. Start with a thorough audit.
To be successful, organizations need to understand where and how their existing devices are being utilized, and plan and identify sunset dates for their current technology. Further, there must be an understanding of downstream reactions that could occur when legacy systems are altered. The audit addresses uncertainty, identifies true needs, and allows the business to begin consideration for solutions and associated budgets.
2. Plan for the right technology solution.
If an organization has been operating on 3G devices/modems for an extended period, it is important to consider the effects the enhanced technology could have on operations. Understand how the new technology can change procedures and operations. Identify the appropriate solutions, process, and procedures for network and personnel optimization.
3. Plan the transition strategy.
Identify internal and external resources to deploy your solutions, whether you need IoT expertise, app development, logistics planning, installation, or ongoing support, as examples. Consider requirements, resources, sunset timing, and opportunities as you plan and map your strategy.
[1] Contact your carrier for specific details on the sunset date of your 3G modem.
About GMR:
Over the past three decades, GMR has become known as the “Industry Best Practice” for helping facilities document existing conditions, prepare for improvements, and minimize risk. We are a diverse supplier, woman-owned and operated firm, specializing in ATM lighting compliance surveys, custom facility inspections, engineered lighting designs, program management, 3D laser scanning, and security consulting. Headquartered in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, we self-perform over 45,000 inspections and engineered solutions each year nationwide. Just as each client is unique, so are our methodologies and solutions.