When deploying new technology in a business, integrating it into an existing infrastructure is often more complicated than starting from scratch. This challenge is particularly relevant for companies relying on mobile devices and wireless technologies in industries like retail, warehousing, and logistics.
Jeff Brown, Senior Sales Engineer at Lowry Solutions, has spent over two decades working in these environments, helping businesses introduce new systems while managing the limitations of what’s already in place.
In his conversation with Brett Cooper of BlueFletch, Jeff shared his insights on how companies can approach technology integration and innovation, highlighting the importance of balancing legacy systems with modern solutions, navigating technical debt, and implementing Proof of Concept (POC) and pilot projects strategically.
Greenfield vs. Existing Technology: Why It Matters
In an ideal world, businesses would have the opportunity to build their technology infrastructure from the ground up—known as a Greenfield project. With no existing constraints, it’s easier to design and implement a cutting-edge system that fits current needs perfectly. However, most companies are working with an existing infrastructure that includes a range of legacy devices and outdated systems. This is where the complexity comes in.
Integrating new technology into an environment with older systems requires a deep understanding of what’s already in place. Businesses must evaluate what legacy components can be updated and which need to be replaced. Jeff emphasizes the need for thorough assessments in these situations, noting that organizations often deal with a heterogeneous mix of devices—sometimes spanning generations of technology. The key is determining which parts of the infrastructure can be upgraded and which are simply too outdated to support new functionality.
In many cases, businesses try to extend the life of legacy systems because of the significant cost associated with replacing them. This can be especially true for mobile devices, which are typically more expensive to replace than desktop computers. However, holding on to outdated technology can limit the effectiveness of new solutions and ultimately cost more in the long run.
Navigating Technical Debt in a Mobile World
Another major hurdle for businesses deploying new technology is managing “technical debt.” This term refers to the accumulated inefficiencies and limitations that come from earlier decisions, whether in software development or hardware deployment. In mobile environments, technical debt often arises when businesses adopt devices or platforms that aren’t fully optimized for enterprise use.
For instance, some companies may still be using outdated systems like Windows CE or green screen applications in their warehouses. While these systems might still function, they don’t offer the same level of efficiency or capability as modern platforms like Android. Jeff explains that addressing technical debt requires companies to make hard decisions about what to keep and what to phase out. This process involves not just evaluating the cost of replacing legacy systems, but also understanding the strategic limitations those systems impose on future growth.
For companies in industries like warehousing, logistics, and retail, technical debt can create bottlenecks in operations. Warehouse environments, in particular, have historically relied on simple, low-cost solutions like barcode scanners and green screens. These systems may work well for basic tasks, but they don’t allow for the flexibility or innovation that modern mobile solutions can offer.
In mobile environments, technical debt often arises when businesses adopt devices or platforms that aren’t fully optimized for enterprise use.
The Importance of Proof of Concept and Pilot Projects
When businesses consider introducing new technology, whether it’s new mobile devices or software, it’s crucial to differentiate between Proof of Concept (POC) and pilot projects. Jeff stresses that these two terms, while often used interchangeably, have distinct purposes.
A POC is an experimental stage where a business tests whether a new technology concept can work within its operations. It’s meant to evaluate whether the solution can solve a specific problem or improve a process, but it doesn’t assume full-scale deployment. A pilot project, on the other hand, is a step closer to production. It’s a test run of a solution that the company intends to roll out across the organization, with the expectation that it will become part of day-to-day operations.
One of the biggest mistakes companies make is failing to set clear goals and timelines for POCs. Without defined success criteria, POCs can linger indefinitely, wasting time and resources. Jeff warns against what he calls “zombie projects”—initiatives that never fully succeed but aren’t officially ended either. To avoid this, businesses need to ensure that POCs have an endpoint and that there is a plan for what happens next, whether the project moves to a pilot stage or is scrapped entirely.
Similarly, pilot projects must include a “Day Two” plan, which outlines how the solution will be maintained and enhanced once it’s in production. This is especially important in environments where mobile devices and applications are constantly evolving. Without a clear strategy for ongoing support and improvement, even successful pilots can struggle to deliver long-term value.
Innovation and Cost Justification
One of the most challenging aspects of introducing new technology is justifying the cost of POCs and pilot projects, particularly when there’s no guarantee that a solution will make it to full deployment. Jeff argues that businesses need to accept that innovation comes with a certain level of risk. Companies that aren’t willing to take these risks are likely to fall behind, especially in industries where mobile devices and wireless infrastructure are becoming essential for efficient operations.
The good news is that the mobile space has matured significantly over the past decade. Today, there are more tools and resources available for businesses of all sizes to experiment with new technologies without incurring massive costs. From mobile device management (MDM) platforms to specialized applications for task management and communication, companies now have access to a range of solutions that can help them stay competitive without needing to build everything from scratch.
Wi-Fi and Networking: The Hidden Infrastructure Challenge
One often overlooked aspect of deploying new mobile solutions is the state of the underlying wireless infrastructure. Many businesses, especially those in large facilities like warehouses or retail stores, still operate on older Wi-Fi systems that weren’t designed to handle today’s high-density device environments.
Modern wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 offer significant improvements in performance and reliability, but upgrading an entire facility’s network is a costly and complex process. Jeff points out that businesses need to assess their current infrastructure carefully before rolling out new mobile solutions. Poor network performance can undermine the effectiveness of even the most advanced devices and applications, leading to frustration for both employees and customers.
Final Thoughts
Integrating new technology into existing infrastructure is never easy, but businesses that take a thoughtful and strategic approach can overcome many of the common challenges. By understanding the difference between Greenfield and existing technology projects, managing technical debt, and using POCs and pilot projects effectively, companies can introduce new mobile solutions that improve efficiency and drive growth.
As Jeff Brown’s experience shows, the key to success is balancing innovation with practicality. Businesses must be willing to invest in new technologies while also recognizing the limitations of their current systems—and always have a plan for what comes next.
Integrating new technology into existing infrastructure is never easy, but businesses that take a thoughtful and strategic approach can overcome many of the common challenges.
