iPad Usage in the Enterprise

Usage of Apple’s iPad in the enterprise has shown strong signs of adoption, especially in certain business sectors where the iPad appears to be a strong fit. These business sectors include financial services, technology, and healthcare. And although it was initially marketed as a consumer device, the corporate enterprise usage of the iPad is showing tremendous growth.

Adoption Spreads

Many business sectors are embracing the iPad en-masse, including the real estate industry, architectural firms, and genera sales support across many industries. The form factor of the iPad makes it especially convenient for these sectors, where presentations and information can be displayed easily in meetings, to take advantage of the mobile technology.

Regarding the healthcare industry, greater usage may be limited by the inability of the device to be sanitized or operate in a sealed compartment. This is a key concern in hospital and medical settings, but has not stopped adoption in other instances, such as sales, inventory management, and numerous administrative functions.

Another example of a corporation using the Apple iPad is Malaysia Airlines. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Airlines has installed the devices in its offices at the city’s main railway station. Customers can search and book flights, purchase tickets, check-in for flights, and perform other pre-boarding activities. Malaysia Airlines is the first airline to use the iPad for other than in-flight entertainment usage.

iPads are a great tool for retailers who need to tempt the Customer back into the stores that are becoming less relevant these days as all product information is available on the internet in the comfort of home, they can even buy the goods from home.

Retailers must duplicate the customer experience on the shop floor. They must arm their sales people with iOS or Android devices that will engage the customer. Shop floor staff must be as knowledgeable about what’s in store and all product details and be prepared to engage the customer and go the extra mile.

These devices should be able to look up product details, stock availability and alternate suggestions.  They should be able to query the stock room and upsell the customer on the spot and even order the goods to be brought out for mobile check out. Never let the customer get away! 

While many businesses are beginning to adopt the iPad, it is not expected that the iPad will replace desktops and laptops. At least not completely. Most companies are integrating them as an additional tool in their corporate lineup, rather than a complete replacement. They are finding ways to utilize the unique design and capabilities in their business endeavors. Again, the iPad’s form factor makes it easy to carry around and demonstrate or present information where needed. 

iPad. Therefore I am. 

In a recent report released by Apple, it was stated that about half of the Fortune 100 corporations have already begun to use the iPad as an enterprise tool. And many are not viewing it as just another technical gadget but as a tool that has a role in their enterprise infrastructure and strategy.

Gartner recently urged CEOs to embrace the iPad immediately, recommending that CEOs take a more proactive approach in this instance to ensure that their Information Technology departments are taking a serious look at the iPad for enterprise use.

Gartner predicts that the Apple iPad will continue to lead the way in worldwide media tablet sales. They expect the overall number of units to reach over 50 million in 2011. This would be a growth rate of 181 percent over 2010. Gartner also feels that the iPad is a device that is redefining and reshaping markets. The usage of the iPad in the enterprise environment may also help with the recruitment and retention of talented employees who may already be using the device personally.

Corporations are learning that early adoption of market changing technology such as the iPad can help them in their business strategy to be more productive, cost efficient, and stay on the cutting edge. Yes, the iPad was indeed launched as a consumer device, but the enterprise has clearly taken a bite.