In the world of construction, it’s not often you find an affordable tool that can be used for multiple purposes, while withstanding the extreme conditions at a worksite. Kyocera – the leader in rugged mobile solutions – provides the construction and concrete industries a portfolio of award-winning, ruggedized mobile phones that are certified to military standards for toughness, thriving where other devices die and keeping you connected and productive on the job.
A study by Engineering News Record estimates that 93 percent of general contractors and 87 percent of subcontractors use some sort of mobile device. Construction and concrete workers are faced with some of the toughest working environments around. Tools get dropped, wet, dusty and dirty, making these jobsites the enemy of most electronics and technology. Kyocera builds mobile devices certified to U.S. Military Standard 810G for protection against threats including dust, shock, vibration, humidity, immersion (up to 6.5ft for up to 30min), temperature extremes/shock, blowing rain, icing/freezing rain and more. They’re even certified for use in Hazardous Locations (Non-Incendive Class 1, Division 2). And the best part? They’re a fraction of the cost of today’s most popular, non-rugged mobile phones, come with a standard 2-year limited warranty, and don’t need an expensive case to protect them.
While Kyocera’s devices are full of the standard smartphone features, additional functionality helps improve productivity on the jobsite. A dedicated Push-to-Talk (PTT) side button keeps individuals and groups/crews connected with one-touch, walkie-talkie-style PTT operation and features extra-loud (100+dB) dual front speakers for audibility in the noisiest environments. Glove & Wet Touchscreen Operation enables full use of the phone when the user is wearing gloves or the display is wet. An integrated wide-angle HD action camera helps document work in progress, and big, long-lasting batteries are designed to last a full shift or overtime.
In considering rugged mobile technology, here are some key benefits to consider:
Project & Field Management – Smartphones help manage the entire lifecycle of a construction project, connecting staff responsible for the information, processes, employees, subcontractors and suppliers. Keep track of workers and assets, automate the time-card process, keep schedules and plans handy, and more – all from the mobile device.
Communications & Connectivity – Mobile phones are being used to facilitate instant voice, text and email communications between jobsite workers and the main office. Push to Talk (PTT) capabilities empower workers, subcontractors and suppliers with one-touch walkie-talkie style communications for instant communications to individuals or groups about safety conditions, deliveries, change requests and other time-sensitive events.
Material & Resource Management – Materials are often procured and purchased at the office, but delivered directly to the jobsites. Mobile devices can help automate this process with on-the-ground scanning capabilities and the ability to trigger instant notifications in the event of order shipment errors.
Are you making mobile technology your business partner in the field? According to Autodesk, 75% of construction dollars are spent in the field, yet less than 10% of technology spending is allocated there. Construction companies using technology in the field have a significant competitive advantage. Meanwhile, according to analyst firm VDC Research, using rugged mobile devices instead of off-the-shelf consumer devices in the workplace can save an average of 46% on overall total cost of mobility.
Kyocera’s goal is to create rugged mobile devices that help improve efficiencies and keep all workers productive and connected on the jobsite, reliably and affordably. Minimize downtime, stay productive and stay connected. With a 58-year history of quality and innovation, Kyocera is the leader in rugged mobile solutions. When it comes to blending performance, durability and affordability for the construction industry, Kyocera is in a class of its own.