Operating system modernization and a growing need to expand into auxiliary business services drives postal-courier investments in modern, flexible mobile devices with more intuitive user-interfaces.
Natick, MA (PRWEB) December 15, 2015
Over the next five years, shipments of mobile devices to postal-courier delivery workers will grow at a rate of about 2.4 percent due to these devices’ increased sophistication and growing ability to meet the modern needs of postal organizations, according to VDC Research (click here for more info). This trend is driven in part by organizations facing a number of technical and industry challenges that serve as impetuses for investments in mobile software and hardware in the years ahead. One challenge, the approaching end-of-life for legacy Windows Mobile 6.x/Windows CE operating systems in 2020, has organizations contemplating their future mobile strategy. This strategy will need to address difficult questions about operating system choice and application modernization. Furthermore, evolving market dynamics have resulted in reduced mail volumes and increased parcel volumes driven by strong growth in e-commerce. These trends encourage the acquisition of technologies that allow expansion into auxiliary services while simultaneously addressing current workflows. Finally, customers are demanding greater personalization and control over the delivery process; thus, necessitating technology capable of interfacing appropriately with customers and meeting their new demands.
“Meaningful support for legacy Windows operating systems—Embedded Compact and Embedded Handheld 6.5—ends in 2015, and security patches will only be provided through 2020,” says Matthew Hopkins, Research Associate of VDC Research. “Essentially putting the platform on life support, Microsoft will no longer direct research and development toward these systems, and the portfolio of available devices will continue to shrink over the next few years.”
The sun setting of legacy Windows operating systems is a driving force in the postal-courier industry, and one that will result in a period of modernization essential for success in an evolving industry. While upfront costs associated with modernization may be substantial, the returns on investment can be impressive as product and service diversification grows more and more important.
About VDC Research
Founded in 1971, VDC Research provides in-depth insights to technology vendors, end users, and investors across the globe. As a market research and consulting firm, VDC’s coverage of AutoID, enterprise mobility, industrial automation, and IoT and embedded technologies is among the most advanced in the industry, helping our clients make critical decisions with confidence. Offering syndicated reports and custom consultation, our methodologies consistently provide accurate forecasts and unmatched thought leadership for deeply technical markets. Located in Natick, Massachusetts, VDC prides itself on its close personal relationships with clients, delivering an attention to detail and a unique perspective that is second to none.