B2B Integration : A Practical Guide to Collaborative E-commerce

376 B2B Integration — A Practical Guide to Collaborative E-commerce
Is data pushed or pulled?
Another factor to consider is whether data will be pushed to individuals
or pulled by individuals. Push-based data transfer lends itself to timesensitive
information requiring interactivity from the recipient. An
example is whether to reschedule a planned meeting upon receiving
notice that one of the invitees cannot attend. Push functionality may be
achieved through various technologies: Short Messaging Service (SMS)
messages, browser alerts to WAP phones, or e-mail to an 'always-on'
device. The type of underlying network available will determine which
of these options are viable.
For example, 'packet-switched' bearer networks (used by two-way
paging devices) are 'always on'. They do not require the user to
establish a network connection before receiving data which makes this
type of network an ideal choice when the timely receipt of wireless
e-mail is absolutely necessary. Conversely, 'circuit-switched' networks,
such as those used by digital and PCS (Personal Communication System)
mobile phones, require that a connection be established, but offer the
additional benefit of carrying voice-based communications.
There are other factors to consider. In the American market, the
patchwork of competing PCS and cellular carriers means that packetswitched
networks have a greater geographic coverage than any one
circuit-switched network. Companies seeking to standardize on one
device for employees traveling throughout the country may choose
always-on connectivity for this reason.
Local mobile (LAN) versus roaming mobile
In offices where employees want to move freely within a limited area,
wireless LANs may be the ideal solution. By establishing a wireless
LAN, a company can equip employees with handhelds that access its
network over an always-on connection from within a relatively short
radius, with much higher bandwidth than would be possible over widerange
bearer networks. Some hotels equip their staff with handheld
devices that track room status and inventory levels in real-time and
many supermarkets employ this technology to update inventory.