With so many mobile devices on the market that support various operating systems, it’s often tough to know which will be the best tool to support you and your team. In series of four posts, we are speaking with Canadian business leaders about how and why they chose not just their device, but also the operating system.
Over the years, the Canadian-created BlackBerry has become a staple for businesses across the globe. The RIM-built smartphones connect users to everything they need, but are also widely respected for their intuitive multitasking features that empower productivity both in and outside of the office.
For David Carmichael, a Toronto-based management consultant, the functionality he sees with his BlackBerry smartphone means he’s not had to look to another device to conduct his business operations.
“I began using my BlackBerry when I worked as a consultant with the Ontario Government,” says Carmichael. “I have not done a lot of research into the functionality of other devices, but I am very happy with the BlackBerry. I think most business owners are interested in ensuring they can communicate with their staff and clients outside of work hours; so the BlackBerry’s email and phone functionality are perfect.”
BlackBerry smartphones are often the device of choice for corporate environments for a few reasons: they offer a high level of security with encryption; efficient data delivery with compression; and integration with a number of messaging platforms. The proprietary OS and unique BlackBerry Enterprise Server also allow management or IT departments centralized control over all company-issued devices, if they so choose.
For Carmichael specifically, his mind is at ease simply knowing his email goes anywhere he is – especially important for his line of work, which often involves a day calendar full of meetings. “At a client site, I may not be able to get my email using their computer system, so having the BlackBerry is great.”
And Carmichael is not alone in that assessment. In fact, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos Reid, the BlackBerry is the top mobile smartphone brand in Canada.
“BlackBerry still dominates the battle of the smartphone brands in Canada,” says Mary Beth Barbour, Senior Vice-President of Ipsos Reid. “Even when you consider the brand of the operating system – rather than just the brand of the device – BlackBerry still captures the largest share.”
Other device selling features often touted by BlackBerry users are the smartphone’s sync functionality, which ensures your contacts, calendar and other organizational items are up-to-date both at the office and on the go, and BlackBerry Messenger, a “chat” function installed on all BlackBerrys that offers direct and immediate communication with inner circles, work groups and clients. BBM can also serve as a business continuity option in case of an emergency, as it rarely crash in times when wireless signals might.
Additionally, the new BlackBerry 6 OS allows for fast web browsing and universal search function, fuelling even more business productivity. Plus, with a wide assortment of free and paid apps in BlackBerry App World, designed specifically with the business user in mind, those who choose BlackBerry can do everything from coordinating a shipment and tracking billing, to managing travel and remote printing.
Although touchscreen-only models exist, most BlackBerry smartphones are designed with an easy-to-use QWERTY keyboard for fast and accurate typing – a feature Carmichael says is incredibly important – as well as intuitive, optical trackpads for screen and menu navigation. Carmichael says while he uses the BlackBerry camera from time to time, he’s fine with keeping his smartphone a smart phone.
“I have had lengthy discussions with other device users,” he says. “But frankly, I have not found any device that interests me enough to switch from my BlackBerry.”
TELUS offers a range of devices equipped with all the top operating systems, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for every business.
