Operational teams need to communicate constantly to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations. However, communication is frequently interrupted by range limitations, dead batteries, congested channels, crosstalk, and interference. This scenario is more common than one might imagine and generates enormous losses for companies. Inefficient communication can be catastrophic, especially in critical environments where every second counts.
In this article, we will examine the main communication problems between operational and field teams and present a solution that can transform communication, generating an immediate and significant return on investment (ROI).
Common Problems with Traditional Radios: LMR (Land Mobile Radio) and HT (Handheld Transceivers)
Traditional radios, known as LMR HTs, are widely used in field operations. However, these devices have a number of problems that compromise communication efficiency:
- Interference and Signal Limitation: In environments such as basements or areas with concrete and iron structures, the signal from HT radios is practically nonexistent. This results in "shadow zones" where communication is interrupted.
- Battery Dependence: HT radios rely on batteries that rarely last a full day of intensive work. The constant need for backup batteries increases operational complexity and cost.
- Channel Congestion: With multiple users speaking on the same channel, the clarity of communication is compromised, increasing the risk of misunderstandings and operational errors.
- Limited Range: The range of HT radios is restricted, especially in large industrial areas. Even with special antennas, communication is limited to the antenna's perimeter, leaving teams disconnected when outside that area.
Excessive Costs of Acquiring, Maintaining, and Using LMR HT Radios
Maintaining an efficient communication network with walkie-talkies is expensive and ineffective. Companies face high costs associated with acquiring and maintaining these devices. In rental contracts, the costs can reach hundreds of reais per radio, in addition to the cost of batteries and accessories. Furthermore, if a radio malfunctions, the contract often requires payment for a new radio, further increasing expenses.
For example, in a large petrochemical complex, the monthly cost to maintain 20 operational radios, including batteries and lapel headsets, can exceed 12,000 reais per month. This cost does not account for communication interruptions that cause significant delays and operational losses.
Solution: Zello Work by Above-Net
Above-Net offers Zello Work in Brazil as a revolutionary solution to overcome the communication challenges of field teams. Zello Work is a smartphone app-based communication platform capable of efficiently implementing PTT (Push-to-Talk) communication on a private corporate network, replacing LMR HT radios. Its main advantages include:
- Seamless Connectivity: Using any data network such as Wi-Fi or cellular, Zello Work ensures continuous communication. Even in areas with limited signal, messages are recorded and delivered as soon as the user returns to an area with minimal signal.
- Cost Savings: Zello Work is significantly cheaper than HT radios. With a monthly fee per user, the need for investment in additional hardware is eliminated since any smartphone can be integrated into the corporate network.
- Advanced Features: In addition to voice communication, Zello Work allows you to send photos, text messages, geolocation, and emergency calls. All communications are encrypted and cannot be forwarded to another app, ensuring security and privacy.
- Ease of Use: Zello Work can be installed on existing mobile devices, eliminating the need to carry and maintain multiple devices.
Results: ROI and Efficiency in Team Communication with Multiple Benefits
To demonstrate the positive financial impact, let's analyze a fictional situation based on real data. Suppose a large industrial company is using 300 walkie-talkies in its operations. The rental costs for each radio, plus the costs of backup batteries, lapel headsets, and ongoing maintenance, raise the monthly costs to approximately 100,000 reais.
By migrating to Zello Work, the company pays a fee of up to 150 reais per user monthly. Considering that most companies already have corporate smartphones for other purposes, for the same 300 users, the monthly cost would be up to 45,000 reais. Even including the potential improvement of the plant's wireless network infrastructure, lapel microphones, and other operational accessories for using Zello Work, the savings would exceed 500,000 reais per year.
Beyond the direct cost savings, Zello Work offers far superior functionalities compared to traditional walkie-talkies. The dispatch center organizes calls and communication groups. Recorded messages ensure that no crucial information is lost, even if the user is temporarily out of reach. The ability to send photos and texts, in addition to voice communication, improves the accuracy of instructions and reports, while end-to-end encryption increases the security of communications.
In summary, implementing Zello Work results in a significant return on investment (ROI). By reducing communication costs and increasing efficiency, companies see improvements in productivity and operational safety. Clear and consistent communication allows teams to respond quickly to emergencies and coordinate activities more effectively, minimizing downtime and errors.
To learn more about how Zello Work can transform communication in your company, download our catalog: The PTT Communication Revolution for Businesses.
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The Revolution in PTT Communication for Businesses
The catalog "The Revolution in PTT Communication for Businesses" Above-Net 's Zello Work overcomes the limitations of traditional LMR HT radios. It offers unlimited, organized, and auditable communication. Ideal for companies seeking efficiency and security, it allows for multiple channels, message recording, quick response via Dispatch Hub, and integration with the Bridgemeter IoT Industrial Intelligent system.
