Wei Kevin Luk BA 305 Summer 2013 Leon Chickering Tablet: A Medicine for Salespeople? Introduction Tablet computer has increased in popularity throughout the recent years. Tablets sales have drastically increase, in fact sales of tablet increased 80% in 2012. According to IDC data, a forecast shows that tablet sell in exceed PC sales in two years. At the same time, many salespeople have already adopted using tablets in their daily sales. In this report, I want to discuss the advantage and disadvantages of using tablet during sales. Advantages 1. Mobility Tablet are designed to hold in your hand. Therefore, they are generally lighter and smaller in size compare to a normal sized computer or netbook. They are perfect for salesman who travel a lot. Also, the tablet has a significant boot time difference compare to a computer. A tablet is almost instant on, but a computer takes time to start up. The lightweight device enable Wei Kevin Luk BA 305 Summer 2013 Leon Chickering salesperson to work if they are on public transit. But you cannot do that with a normal sized computer. 2. Multi-­‐functionality There are many functions of a tablet that a salesperson can utilize. Tablets are capable giving small presentation in a one on one situation. This kind of presentation is more natural compare to presenting through a laptop. If a salesman is selling software or digital services, he can provide a quick demo to the client. A tablet can also be point of sale tool, payment can process right away. Salesmen can also get real-­‐time information regarding inventory, numbers, price, etc. Most importantly tablet can be turned into a communication tool for sales team to communicate. 3. Paper Replacement By using the tablet, company can be more environmental friendly. At lot of paper or report can be carried in digital format. This can eliminate more pocket space for a traveling salesman. 4. Proof in Numbers According to Sales Management Association, 40 percent of current salespeople are using mobile solution involving tablets. Among the executives in those salespeople who use tablet, 70 percent are seeing a tangible return on investment. 90 percent of surveyed sales organizations reporting plans for increased investment in tablet sales solution. This shows that company really do see the benefits of using tablets. Wei Kevin Luk BA 305 Summer 2013 Leon Chickering Disadvantage 1. Cost The cost of the tablet is still considerably higher than normal business laptop. There will be more expense in implementing the tablet. Tablet is no means to replace PC. Therefore, investments in tablets is an extra expense. But the prices are coming down due to more competitors getting into the tablet market. 2. More work Implementing new system may not be easy. Company may have to train their employees in using tablets in their daily work. There may even be employees that have hard time using or even reject the device as it could be a personal choice. Also many files or document may need to be convert into digital format, so more work may be needed for the integration of tablets. Conclusion Advantage Disadvantage Wei Kevin Luk BA 305 Summer 2013 •
Mobility •
Cost •
Multi-­‐functionality •
More Work •
Paper Replacement •
Proofed in Numbers Leon Chickering A lot of company now are integrating tablet in to daily work. And tablet will be ubiquitous in the next couple of years. As an effective salesperson, one should be learn to use a tablet as there are many benefits.