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Confronting the Growth of E-Waste

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In 2016 more than 44.7 metric tonnes (about 49 US tons) of E-Waste were generated worldwide – electronic hardware that has been replaced by newer, more productive models and is now trash. The United Nations Global Partnership on Waste Management and the EPA continually tracks international E-Waste generation, but as we race toward an ever more automated future managing retired technology is a growing issue that can’t be ignored.

Get Paid to Recycle Properly and Help Confront E-Waste Growth!

Recycle to help reduce E-Waste Growth

That’s a big reason why Avalon Integration and Zebra offer the Go Zebra CASHBACK REBATE program. Any time you upgrade to Zebra technology you can get up to $650 cashback – no matter what brand your trade-in. You get cashback and Zebra recycles your old devices properly and in compliance with the latest EPA guidelines in order to help with e-waste growth. Zebra even picks up the tab for UPS shipping.

Plus: Upgrade to the Newest Technology from Zebra

Upgrade to the Latest Technology from Zebra to Help Reduce E-Waste

Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance. Stop losing time and productivity to old technology.

Boost ROI with the most innovative track and trace technology on the market.

  • Expanded enterprise-level functionality
  • Improved ease of use
  • Faster processing power to run more apps
  • Advanced scanning power for greater reach and precision
  • Streamlined device management that reduces IT time
  • Expanded connectivity
  • Enterprise OS compatibility
  • Unmatched ruggedness that prevents unnecessary downtime, repair, and replacement
  • Future-proof design and engineering that allows for field-installable upgrades

Help Confront E-Waste And Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018!

Trade up to a Zebra Printer and Help Confront the Growth of E-Waste

In the last post, we talked about how to trade up to Zebra printers and mobile devices and get cashback. Now you have more reasons than ever to upgrade ALL your track and trace equipment and systems. Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year. That means that if you buy (or lease) NEW equipment, you can deduct the FULL PURCHASE PRICE from your gross income. This year that’s up to $1 million. But hurry: time is running out. You must take delivery by December 31, 2018.

Plus: Get Free Printhead Protection

Just agree to use ONLY genuine Zebra supplies with your Zebra thermal printer and we’ll give you free printhead replacements. You’ll need replacements less often because these quality consumables will prevent the premature wear and tear that the bargain supplies can cause. Join the Printhead Protection Program. Extend the life of your Zebra printer and lower the total cost of ownership. Contact Avalon Integration or click here to enroll.

Rebates Simple as 1, 2, 3!

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details. Just fill out this form.

  1. CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED ZEBRA® PARTNER CONNECT CHANNEL PARTNER Avalon Integration will take into consideration your users, applications and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership so you choose the right solution.
  2. PURCHASE A QUALIFIED PRODUCT Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. SUBMIT YOUR RECLAIM FORM AND TRADE IN YOUR BATTERIES OR DEVICES Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

Hurry! Time’s Almost Up!

Rebate expires Dec 31 now is the time

Check out the Avalon Go Zebra page to learn more!

Next Up

In our next post, we’ll talk about innovations in recycling and how cashback and recycling, combined with IRS 179, make upgrading more affordable than ever for mobile track and trace equipment.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Printers and Mobile Devices Now

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Last post we talked about how to trade up to Zebra batteries and chargers and get cashback. Now you have more reasons than ever to upgrade ALL your track and trace equipment and systems. But hurry: time is running out. You only have until December 31, 2018!

1. Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018!

Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018 for Cash Back!

Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year. That means that if you buy (or lease) NEW equipment, you can deduct the FULL PURCHASE PRICE from your gross income. This year that’s up to $1 million. But, you must take delivery before the end of the year.

2. Get a Cash Rebate with the Go Zebra Cash Back Rebate Program!

Get a Cash Rebate!

Upgrade to the newest technology from Zebra, through Avalon Integration, and get cashback with Zebra’s GO Zebra CASHBACK REBATE program. Trade-in your outdated equipment – any brand – and receive cash back when you upgrade to select Zebra products. Get up to $650 cash back when you trade-in your current technology toward the purchase of a new Zebra device.

Remember, Non-Zebra models qualify for trade-in and Zebra pays shipping.

3. Leverage New Technology Now!

Leverage New Technology Now!

Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance. Stop losing time and productivity to old technology. Boost ROI with the most innovative track and trace technology on the market.

  • Expanded enterprise-level functionality
  • Improved ease of use
  • Faster processing power to run more apps
  • Advanced scanning power for greater reach and precision
  • Streamlined device management that reduces IT time
  • Expanded connectivity
  • Enterprise OS compatibility
  • Unmatched ruggedness that prevents unnecessary downtime, repair, and replacement
  • Future-proof design and engineering that allows for field-installable upgrades

Plus: Help the Environment as You Improve Yours

Zebra recycles all devices and batteries. They don’t just dump them in landfills. You’re putting cash in your account and helping Zebra treat the environment right.

Plus: Get Free Printhead Protection

Get Free Printhead Protection

Agree to feed your Zebra thermal printer with ONLY genuine Zebra supplies and we will give you free printhead replacements when you need them—which will be less often because these quality consumables will prevent premature wear and tear that the bargain supplies cause. Join the Printhead Protection Program. Extend the life of your Zebra printer and lower the total cost of ownership. Contact Avalon Integration or click here to enroll.

Rebates as Simple as 1, 2, 3!

  1. Contact Your Authorized Zebra® Partnerconnect Channel Partner Avalon Integration will take into consideration your users, applications, and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership so you choose the right solution.
  2. Purchase a Qualified Product Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. Submit Your Reclaim Form and Trade in Your Batteries or Devices Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

Next Up

Next, we’ll talk more about how cashback and recycling, combined with IRS 179 make upgrading more affordable than ever for scanners and other mobile equipment.

Hurry – Time’s Almost Up

The program expires on December 31, 2018.

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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Are Old Batteries Leeching Your Productive Time?

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As lithium-ion batteries age, their performance degrades. Productive time degrades along with them – less uptime, longer charge times and increased battery swapping erode your operational performance – stealing productivity from every day. Now is the perfect time to refresh your mobile printer batteries with GO Zebra. Just trade in your old batteries — including select competitors’ models — and replace them with new Zebra Batteries to earn $10 cashback for every qualifying purchase.

Put Cash in Your Account – Not Batteries in a Landfill!

Quad Battery Charger Power Precision

Zebra recycles all devices and batteries. They don’t just dump them in landfills. You’re putting cash in your account and helping Zebra treat the environment right.

Earn $20 cashback on Zebra’s new Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger when you trade in the Quad Battery Charger. Zebra’s Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger is designed to simultaneously charge up to six PowerPrecision+ batteries from a single AC outlet.

The Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger supports the following PowerPrecision+ batteries:

  • QLn220/QLn320/ZQ500 Standard Battery
  • QLn220/QLn320/ZQ500 Extended Battery
  • QLn220/QLn320 Healthcare Battery
  • QLn420 Battery

AND ZEBRA PAYS SHIPPING FOR YOU TO SEND YOUR OLD BATTERIES AND DEVICES IN FOR TRADE.

Recycle, Renew and Get a Rebate on Printers and Mobile Devices

Replace Batteries with Zebra Power Precision

With Avalon and the GoZebra program, you can get cashback on other devices as well. Trade-in your outdated printers, scanners, and computers – any brand – and receive cash back when you upgrade to the newest, best technology from Zebra. Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance—which means you’re compromising productivity.

Zebra makes it easier than ever to cash in your legacy investment and upgrade to the latest, most innovative, purpose-built technology. Get up to $650 cashback when you trade in your current technology toward the purchase of a new Zebra device.

REBATES AS SIMPLE AS 1, 2, 3!

Power Precision Batteries Icon

  1. CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED ZEBRA® PARTNER CONNECT CHANNEL PARTNER Let Avalon Integration guide you to the right solutions. We’ll take into consideration your users, applications, and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership.
  2. PURCHASE A QUALIFIED PRODUCT Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. SUBMIT YOUR RECLAIM FORM AND TRADE IN YOUR BATTERIES OR DEVICES Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

NEXT UP

Next, we’ll talk more about how cashback and recycling can combine with IRS 179 rules to make upgrading more affordable than ever. There’s never been a better time to upgrade.

Hurry – Time’s Almost Up

The program expires on December 31, 2018.

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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What Is OS Migration?

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Simply put, if you currently use any Windows Operating System other than Windows 10 or Azure IoT for your enterprise devices, you will need to migrate to another operating system even if it’s to a newer Windows OS to be prepped for the upcoming OS Migration.

A challenge – yes – and maybe an opportunity. The entire debate begins with Microsoft appearing to throw in the towel on windows phones – they are not just cutting support for older iterations but they seem to be giving up on the Windows phone. Enterprise users will need to find alternatives and plan strategies that move their businesses forward.

OS Migration Schedule

OS Migration Schedule

Here is the schedule for Windows OS withdrawal from the rugged enterprise market.

Operating System General Support Ends Extended Support Ends
Windows Embedded Compact 7 Ended April 13, 2021
Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 Ended January 13, 2020
Windows Embedded CE 6.0 Ended Ended
Windows Embedded Handheld 8.1 July 9, 2019 N/A
Others (CE 5.0, WM 5.0, WM 6.1, WM 6.5, WEHH 8.0) Ended Ended

Windows’ dilemma affects 15 million mobile enterprise computers— approximately 90% of the enterprise computing market and the impact will be felt across all industries.

No more security patches. No more updates.

For some, the search for a suitable OS began as soon as the announcement was made. Sooner or later everyone using the older Windows OS will need to find a new one and migrate their apps.

What are the options?

  1. Continue with Windows, without security updates. You’ll be risking your network to malware and eventually, your productivity will suffer as devices go down and can’t be serviced.
  2. Rewrite your apps to fit Windows 10 and IoT. Your users still need to learn a new interface even as you invest in rewriting apps.
  3. Move to a different operating system, like Android or iOS. Yes, you rewrite apps, but you move to viable Operating Systems that users know well.

Android or iOS?

TC20 - OS Migration

Most of your workforce is already very familiar with Android. 85% of consumer and enterprise mobile devices currently in use run on Android; 14% run iOS. It’s pretty clear these are the two most likely choices – Android and iOS.

There are plusses and minuses to each. Android offers a much larger population of software developers, but it has suffered in the past from security issues associated with its open-source platform. If, as it appears now, that problem has been resolved, Android would present a distinct advantage over iOS. Also, iOS is only available for consumer-grade Apple devices. They are enormously popular with consumers but don’t have nearly the enterprise-level features of durability, scanning, and computing that Android offers. 

An Enterprise Android Solution for OS Migration

OS Migration - DNA Mobility

Zebra has deep Android experience and created a solution that is gaining a lot of traction among enterprise users. Zebra’s Powerful Mobility Extensions (Mx) and Mobility DNA Solutions overcome security issues and create robust management capabilities to meet the needs of the modern enterprise user.

With the Zebra overlays, Android looks like the OS leader in enterprise-ready devices. Your data is secure. The OS is eminently flexible and customizable. Android’s familiar interface makes it easy for almost every member of the workforce to use and it’s affordable. And Zebra’s commitment to enterprise mobility offers an opportunity to substantially upgrade performance once you’ve made a plan to migrate to Android.

You have important choices to make if you’re using Windows CE/Embedded. Migrate now or wait until you no longer have security patches to protect your network. In future blogs, we’ll take up, in more detail, the impact of the OS Migration as well as where and when to migrate to a new operating system.

Avalon Integration can help you evaluate your current situation and guide you to the strategic transition that will deliver the best results for your company. Talk to us to steer your migration along a smart route.

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Choose Your DSD Partner Wisely – Why You Should Choose Avalon Integration

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Drivers are the heart of Direct Store Delivery (DSD). Avalon Integration understands the challenges they face. We know how to provide them with the best tools for the job, so they can deliver superior customer satisfaction.

DSD Knowledge and Experience

Direct Store Delivery Worker Wearing Zebra Printer

Avalon Integration has put in the time to learn the needs of Direct Store Delivery. We’ve spent over 20 years improving efficiency, productivity, and profit across numerous industries.

  • Your Retailers and what their demands look like fast turn, order volume, flexible reorder/ delivery, returns, and refills.
  • Optimizing Routes for each day’s delivery schedule by factoring in variables like traffic patterns, speed limits, distance, and time calculations.
  • Capturing Proof of Delivery with the latest handheld technologies, you can reduce the Order-to-Cash cycle time to a matter of hours.
  • Continuous Improvement by using information captured to set a baseline for performance, so you can measure the effectiveness of incremental and ongoing improvements.

Helping You Improve Productivity

Mobile Computer about to be signed

Avalon Integration works as an extension of your project team, providing every service you need to create the most effective solution for your operation. From designing systems to selecting end-user devices, we’ll help you build DSD solutions that meet your needs and most importantly put you ahead of your competition.

Find Devices That Are Right for You

We work with the DSD Mobile industry leader, Zebra Technologies on device selection, configuration, pilot testing, provisioning, deployment and offer ongoing support to fit your needs with products like:

Policeman holding a TC25 in a parking lot

Zebra TC25

Rugged Smartphones offer reliable, remote access to real-time data, so your drivers are always ready to meet customer needs.

Woman on TC51 Zebra Handheld Computer looking at groceries

TC51/TC56 TOUCH COMPUTER SERIES

Makes your team faster and smarter and better able to satisfy customers.

Man using a ZQ500 to print a label for a worker

ZQ500 Series Mobile Printers

Print receipts, invoices, and labels where your customers are.

Delivery Driver Using Zebra Tablet in loading dock

Zebra ET50/ 55

Flexible enterprise-class features, durability, battery power in your choice of Android™ or Windows®.

DX30 can increase DSD in super markets

DX30 / SMARTDEX SOLUTION

Reconcile invoices at the time of delivery – wirelessly. DX30 enables DEX connection via blue tooth to customers’ DEX system.

Wireless Networking

Avalon Integration can provide predictive, physical surveys, installation, and certification as well as full future support.

System Design & Implementation

Avalon Integration brings their 20 years of experience to process design and ERP, WMS interface. We also provide user interface design and construction as well as developer training. 

Complete Software Packages and Customized Solutions to Fit Your Needs

The right software can reduce costs, streamline workflows, and increase accuracy. We have everything from standalone software packages to completely customizable systems, and the industry expertise to help you tailor the right software to maximize efficiency across your DSD operation.

Working Together can increase you DSD Operation

Contact Avalon’s experts today to help you optimize your DSD operation. We analyze your business and data management needs and tailor a system to fit the specific needs of your company.

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Give Your Drivers the Tools They Need in Direct Store Delivery

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In Direct Store Delivery (DSD) your drivers are the face of your brand. Any misstep dings that carefully built a brand. And to deliver excellent customer service your brand ambassadors need to have the right mobile support.

Great Customer Service Begins with Great Information

Handheld Scanner Scanning a boxes barcode

Meeting customer needs in the challenging world of Direct to Store requires the agility that only comes with a complete set of mobile tools. Tools that travel wherever your delivery brand ambassador does and do whatever they need them to do. So your drivers can:

  • Fit deliveries into specific time-critical windows
  • Establish rapport with customers through accurate, timely information
  • Make adjustments and updates at the moment to provide superior customer service
  • Communicate with customers and HQ in real-time and make customer pleasing  adjustments on the fly
  • Meet the productivity and reporting needs of the organization to improve the overall process for the customer

That’s why Avalon creates front-to-back solutions that combine the right hardware and software to help your people drive success and deliver great customer service while they’re on the go. Tools that give you a real edge. Tools that help you create a competitive advantage.

Zebra gives your people access to technical specifications, inventory information, and direct customer communication on the go, to improve customer satisfaction. 

Rugged Smartphones
TC25 Printing a Label for Direct Store Delivery

Zebra TC25

Reliable, remote access to real-time data. Personal devices don’t have the durability or functionality for a day in day out business use. Rugged Smartphones offer smarter, faster tools so your brand ambassadors are always on the road to meeting customer needs.

Handheld Computers

Tablet Scanner scanning products

TC51/TC56 TOUCH COMPUTER SERIES

They may look like popular smartphones but they’re powerful handheld computers that make your workers faster, smarter and help them to satisfy more customers more completely.

Mobile Printers

Worker using Zebra Handheld Mobile Computer and a Printer

IMZ Series

Rugged wireless mobile printers tailored to what you do and how you work. Rugged machines that feature a range of the latest connectivity options and robust functionality that helps your Direct Store Delivery workers print receipts, invoice, and labels where and when your customers need them.

Software That Works as Hard as Your People with Direct Store Delivery

Added value to customers often arrives at the same time as your driver. If your driver has better access to account and product information, insights that reflect a better understanding of their business you’re in a better position to win. That’s why Avalon offers the most complete mobile productivity solution on the market.

MobiWork® is built from the ground up to be a comprehensive and seamless resource that fits the needs of Direct Store Delivery operations perfectly. It includes GPS tracking, inventory management, billing and invoicing, work order management, electronic forms, scheduling and dispatch, contact management, and more. It offers cloud-based deployment options and native mobile compatibility with Android devices.

Your delivery ambassadors complete all activity reports on their handheld devices: delivery tickets, orders, payments, and signatures received and archived. Operational efficiency drives real productivity. Real-time customer response builds loyalty.

Manage Customer Activity with Direct Store Delivery

Mobile workers can manage customer activity from anywhere, in real time: schedule, location, routing, work orders, invoicing, entry forms, online payment. Capture signatures, audio, and images.

Critical Business Information for the Entire Team

  • Complete visibility into worker location and activities  
  • Manage work orders in real-time
  • Instant alerts for schedule, route or delivery changes
  • Perform on-site transactions
  • Customers can check status or create new work orders on a branded portal
  • TRUSTe Privacy Certification Seal®

Your edge in Direct Store Delivery

Avalon’s experts are ready to help you optimize your Direct Store Delivery operation. We analyze your business and data management needs and tailor a system to fit the specific needs of your company.

Ask us how to keep you moving forward with expert implementation.

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Smart Field Service Mobility

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It’s not enough to achieve lower costs in field service, to be successful today you need to have a smart field service, connected team. Workers must be able to adjust in real-time to meet the changing wants and needs of customers. With so many variables to log, monitor, and control, keeping assets and resources productive and focused on satisfying customer needs is key. The most agile supplier will be the most successful.

Avalon has been helping companies become more agile with smart connectivity. Keeping field resources connected with real-time information to deliver superior customer service. You gain a competitive advantage while keeping productivity high. Avalon combines expert, industry experience with leading-edge mobile tools, superior data capture, and automation software so you keep operations nimble and effective:

  • Field Automation
  • Data Capture
  • Barcode Scanners
  • Mobile Computers & Tablets
  • Mobile Communication

Zebra gives your field operations better connectivity, more accurate up to date data, and more flexibility. They get access to technical specifications, inventory information, and direct customer communication on the go. Zebra helps you optimize operations and empower workers to deliver top customer service.  

Handheld Computers for Smart Field Service
Zebra TC51 Handheld Computer with Water on the Screen

TC51/TC56 Touch Computer Series

They may look like popular smartphones but they’re powerful handheld computers. Your team is always connected and up to date, ready for what the field throws at them. Your people can be faster, smarter, and satisfy more customers.

Mobile Printers
ZQ500 Mobile Printer Smart Field Services

Wireless mobile printers go where your field service forces go. Simplify transactions. Print receipts and invoices on the spot. Features a range of the latest connectivity options and robust functionality so you keep up with the most demanding situations.

Rugged Smartphones
TC25 handheld Computer for Smart Field Services

Zebra TC25

Rugged, reliable and powerful. Real-time data and voice, point and shoot capture of any electronic or printed barcode – rugged smartphones make your team smarter, faster and more agile. Personal devices can’t match the durability or functionality for a day in day out business use that rugged smartphones deliver.

Manage Customer Activity for Smart Field Service

Android Product line up for Manage Smart Field Services

Mobile workers can manage customer activity from anywhere, in real time: schedule, location, routing, work orders, invoicing, entry forms, online payment. Capture signatures, audio, and images. Your team gets all the functionality they need to provide great customer service. Fast.

  • Gain complete visibility into worker location and activities
  • Manage work orders in real-time
  • Instant alerts for schedule, route or delivery changes
  • Perform on-site transactions
  • Customers can check status or create new work orders on a branded portal
  • TRUSTe Privacy Certification Seal®

High-Efficiency Field Service Implementation for You

Avalon’s experience and expertise can help your field service team become more agile and more effective. We’ll analyze your business and data management needs and customize a solution that fits your company. Ask us how Avalon can help you get and keep your competitive advantage. 

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How to Get Great Customer Service in Field Service

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Field service is the name of the game. Mobile workers keep everything moving. When they’re productive, the enterprise is productive. Avalon Integration helps you keep productivity high by keeping you connected.

Avalon Integration combines expert, industry experience with leading-edge mobile tools, superior data capture, and automation software so you keep operations nimble and running smoothly with real-time data management and on-site flexibility.

  • Field Automation
  • Data Capture
  • Barcode Scanners
  • Mobile Computers & Tablets
  • Mobile Communication

Managing far-flung human capital is tough. It’s a constant battle to maintain profit margins, revenues, and quality of service. Enterprises are always on the hunt for cost reduction and ways to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Zebra gives your field operations access to technical specifications, inventory information, and direct customer communication on the go, to improve customer satisfaction and reduce repeat calls. 

Handheld Computers for Field Service
TC72 is a handheld device built for field service

So much to do – deliveries, equipment repair, plumbing, electrical, parcel delivery, yard maintenance, to name just a few – so little time. And so many competitors ready to serve your customers if you slip. They may look like popular smartphones but they’re powerful handheld computers that make field people faster, smarter and help to satisfy more customers.

TC51/TC56 Touch Computer Series

TC51 and TC56 being used in Field Service

Rugged industrial design that looks and feels like the most popular consumer-style smartphones but armed with Zebra-only enterprise-class features, power, security, and manageability your business requires.

Mobile Printers for Field Service
Mobile Printers can be used for Field Service

Rugged wireless mobile printers tailored to what you do and how you work. Printers range from those ideals for occasional use, to rugged machines that feature a range of latest connectivity options and robust functionality that keeps you operating in the most difficult situations.

IMZ Series

  • Proof of Delivery
  • Receipts
  • Parking Regulation
  • OMNI-Channel Fulfillment
  • Fleet Management
  • Field  Sales
  • Field Service
  • Mobile Asset Management

Rugged Smartphones for Field Service
TC25 - Field Service

Zebra TC25

Field workers need reliable, remote access to real-time data. Personal smartphones, tablets, and laptops are attractive and easy to use but, they don’t have the durability or functionality necessary for a day in day out business use. Rugged Smartphones offer smarter, faster tools for business. Consumer smartphone cameras aren’t built for barcode scanning — rugged smartphones offer scanning technology designed for commercial grade point-and-shoot capture of any electronic or printed barcode in virtually any condition.

Zebra TC55

Field workers need reliable, remote access to real-time data. Personal smartphones, tablets, and laptops are attractive and easy to use but, they don’t have the durability or functionality necessary for a day in day out business use. Rugged Smartphones offer smarter, faster tools for business. Consumer smartphone cameras aren’t built for barcode scanning — rugged smartphones offer scanning technology designed for commercial grade point-and-shoot capture of any electronic or printed barcode in virtually any condition.

Welcome to the Future – the Internet of Things (IoT)

Tom using a Zebra Printer and Scanner to prep a box for shipping

When it comes to delivering superior customer service, having the right person, at the right place, at the right time, with the right equipment, is fundamental. Mobile devices have elevated field service dramatically. But the Internet of Things (IoT) is being adopted rapidly and is greatly expanding the capabilities of field mobility. With connected devices and IoT technologies, field personnel will gain actionable insights that enable them to interact and communicate better, faster, and more intelligently than ever.

Imagine a territory of vending machines that give you real-time updates on what’s in stock, what’s needed to be restocked and what needs immediate mechanical attention – all part of the real-time analytics that includes sales activity, broken down by day, hour, brand, etc.

Avalon and Zebra are bringing together real-time asset visibility, rugged mobility, and cloud technology to lead the way to a new level of efficiency, accuracy, and quality. By capturing data and turning it into actionable insight, companies gain Enterprise Asset Intelligence™ — resulting in more informed decision making and more efficient and accurate performance. The right assets, in the right places, at the right time – for the best outcome at the lowest cost.

High-Efficiency Field Service Implementation for You

Avalon’s experts are ready to help you maximize productivity from your field service team. We analyze your business and data management needs and tailor a system to fit the specific needs of your company. We specialize in process design, technical interface design, user interface design and construction, and developer training. Ask us how to keep you moving forward with expert implementation.

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Enterprise Tablets – Best of Both Worlds

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As companies constantly search for technology to give them an edge, mobile computing has advanced throughout the organization, connecting workforce members with each other and with their precious data. Valued for their computing ability, connectivity, and portability, Enterprise Tablets are being adopted more and more by modern workforces. Easing this adoption: tablets enjoy a high level of acceptance and familiarity by workers – from field sales to warehouse workers, to office personnel.

There is a huge upside for operations if familiarity and acceptance can be leveraged into efficiency gains. But, until recently, the business has had to wrestle with a trade-off – Beauty or the Beast.

BEAUTY
Zebra Tablet Front Screen

Elegant, user-friendly, and accessible, consumer-grade devices that are a favorite among workers are natural to help drive productivity gains. But consumer-grade devices have a poor track record standing up to commercial/ industrial demands. Everything from drops to battery life issues, to extreme environments, erode the productivity gains.

BEAST
Zebra Tablet Falling to the Ground with no damage

On the other hand, armoring all that computing and communication capability in a rugged (and heavy) military-grade shell creates a cumbersome and fatiguing experience that throughout a standard workday is a liability to worker wellbeing and a drag on productivity.

BEST OF BOTH with Enterprise Tablets
Best of Both Enterprise Tablets

Happily, the new generation of rugged tablets gives businesses the best of both worlds. Bringing high-level computing, enterprise reliability, toughness, and security together in a lighter weight package that’s easy to use and less fatiguing. The new devices are at home in any environment – warehouse, manufacturing, field, and office.

Modern, rugged tablets check a lot of boxes for the enterprise. They offer the computing power of laptops, communications and data capture, rugged versatility, military-level resistance to shock, and other hazards like dust or moisture – all while going anywhere workers go.

They can be mounted on forklifts, trucks, cars, or taken in hand. They’re accurate up close and at long range, in varied and variable light conditions.

Workers can instantly decode scanned data or retrieve information from a centralized database, a desktop or other source. Anyone, anywhere, can obtain real-time information, any time, to keep things going and make well-informed decisions. Business realizes improved communication and streamlined operations.

What to Consider When Evaluating Enterprise Tablets

  • Ruggedness
  • Product reliability, maximum uptime
  • User acceptance,
  • Communications capabilities,
  • Systems compatibility with ERP, WMS, SCM
  • Scanning functionality accuracy
  • Available features
  • TCO

Easy to Use Enterprise-Class Features
Zebra ET50/ ET55 tablet computers
ET50 Enterprise Tablet Scanning Products

Zebra offers a flexible business tablet that can be customized for just about any job and any environment — from retail associates and warehouse workers inside the four walls to salespeople, delivery drivers and service technicians out in the field. The Zebra ET50/ ET55 tablet computers deliver the best of both worlds — consumer ease of use for workers teamed with all the enterprise-class features and options business needs: durability, constant battery power, choice of Android™ or Windows®, rugged durability and two display sizes. Advanced data capture boasts two integrated cameras, barcode scanning, and video calls optionally advanced scan engines and innovative Bluetooth scanners for comfortable intensive barcode capture and three methods of data entry that work even if the screen is wet – with or without a glove.

A Truly Enterprise-Ready Tablet
Zebra ET1
Zebra ER1 Enterprise Tablet Scanning Green Products

The new class of tablet from Zebra that’s ready for business inside the four walls and out in the field. Zebra ET1 features the consumer-style design that workers find easy to use, combined with enterprise durability. It’s built to take drops, spills, cold winter temps, and extreme heat. The enhanced Android operating system delivers enterprise-class security, flexibility, and manageability over wireless LAN and wireless WAN networks.

Talk to us, Avalon Integration, about how to empower your mobile workforce with today’s modern Enterprise Tablets to get big gains in productivity and customer service.

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Empower Your Mobile Workforce to Do More and Be More

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Get More Production and Empower Your Workforce

In today’s mobile world it’s more important than ever to track, manage, and get the most from your workforce resources. Avalon Integration offers the most complete mobile productivity solution on the market. MobiWork® is a suite of field service solutions built from the ground up to be a comprehensive and seamless resource to empower any business with employees in the field.

Any Field Service Operation

  • Field Service
  • Field Sales
  • Field Marketing
  • Logistics
  • And Many Others

MobiWork® leverages advanced native applications on smartphones, tablets, or rugged devices and pairs well with enterprise-grade hardware from leading technology makers like Zebra. It increases productivity, improves information exchange, and builds customer satisfaction. Reflecting best business practices MobiWork® is cost-effective, highly customizable, easily integrated with existing software, and deploys in minutes.

Unlike traditional mobile workforce management software, MobiWork® is not limited to simply tracking vehicles. It empowers and unifies both mobile and office-based workforces as well as customers with a powerful, fully integrated smartphone and SaaS/cloud-based solution.

MobiWork® offers a suite of field service solutions that features GPS tracking, inventory management, billing and invoicing, work order management, electronic forms, scheduling and dispatch, contact management, and more. It offers cloud-based deployment options and native mobile compatibility with Android devices.

MobiWork®  can be used by companies of any size, in any vertical, and can be used by one user or thousands – managing global operations in multiple countries around the globe on multiple smartphones and tablets, with multiple carriers, in multiple languages and integrated with existing CRM/ ERP.

Manage Productivity to New Heights
Being your Productivity to New Heights

Dramatically increase productivity, reduce costs, and provide real-time information exchange and visibility into every aspect of your business. Capture users’ locations when they log in with a smartphone, tablet, or rugged device. Track individual users, gather and analyze data related to GPS tracking, optimize movement, create timesheets.

Manage Customer Activity

Manage Customer Activity in any environment

Manage Customer Activity in any environment

 

Mobile workers can manage customer activity from anywhere, in real time: schedule, location, routing, work orders, invoicing, entry forms, online payment. Capture signatures, audio, and images.

Critical Business Information for the Entire Team to Empower

  • Gain complete visibility into worker location and activities  
  • Manage work orders in real-time
  • Instant alerts for schedule, route or delivery changes
  • Perform on-site transactions
  • Customers can check status or create new work orders on a branded portal
  • TRUSTe Privacy Certification Seal®

MobiWork® Key Benefits
Avalon Integration and MobiWork Logos

Grow your Business
MobiWork - Grow Your Business Icon

Dramatically increase productivity, reduce costs, and provide real-time information exchange and visibility into every aspect of your business.

Empower Your Team
MobiWork - Empower Your Team Icon

Simplify the day-to-day life of every member of your organization allowing them to perform at their best anywhere, anytime, on any device creating greater customer service while enhancing your bottom line.

Built for You
MobiWork - Built For Your Business Icon

Easily configure to fit your unique business, no matter how specific your requirement and industry.

Key Features

Rich feature set – Everything you need for the day-to-day operations of your team.
Empower Your Warehouse with a Rich Feature Set

Built-in frameworks – Easily configure (no coding required) your data, workflows, and analytics to fit your business.
Built In Frameworks for any Warehouse Setup

Connect to existing software – MobiWork® integrates with your existing software to provide an end-to-end solution that is truly built for the field and for smartphones.
Empower Existing Software within your Warehouse

Talk to us, Avalon Integration, about how to empower your mobile workforce with MobiWork® to get big gains in productivity and customer service.

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