You're caught in a tug-of-war between IT and finance. How do you navigate budget battles for mobile devices?

1 Assess Needs

Before diving into negotiations, take stock of what your company truly requires from its mobile devices. This means evaluating the specific tasks that employees need to accomplish and determining the level of technology necessary to support those activities. It's crucial to differentiate between must-haves and nice-to-haves. For instance, if your sales team relies on resource-heavy applications, they'll need devices with more processing power. Conversely, if tasks are more about communication and scheduling, you might not need the latest models. By understanding the essentials, you can build a stronger case when discussing budgets with finance.

2 Cost Analysis

Once you've identified the mobile device needs, perform a thorough cost analysis. Look at the total cost of ownership (TCO), which includes not only the purchase price but also maintenance, support, and potential downtime costs. Presenting this comprehensive financial picture to your finance department helps them see beyond the initial sticker shock. Explain that investing in slightly more expensive devices might result in lower TCO due to better reliability and longer lifespans. By framing the conversation around long-term savings, you can often sway financial decision-makers who are focused on the bottom line.

3 Value Proposition

Articulate the value proposition of investing in the right mobile devices clearly. Highlight how these tools can increase productivity, enhance security, and potentially generate revenue. For example, better devices could lead to faster customer service responses, improving satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, newer models with updated security features protect against data breaches, which can be financially catastrophic. By demonstrating how the right investment can lead to tangible benefits, you can bridge the gap between IT and finance perspectives.

5 Negotiation Skills

Your negotiation skills are vital in this budget battle. Approach discussions with empathy, understanding both sides' constraints and goals. Be prepared to compromise and find creative solutions that meet the core needs of both departments. For example, you might agree to a phased rollout of new devices, prioritizing those employees whose work requires the latest technology. Effective communication and a willingness to explore all options will lead to a more amicable and successful negotiation.

6 Strategic Planning

Finally, incorporate mobile device budgeting into your organization's strategic planning. By aligning mobile technology investments with long-term business goals, you can make a compelling case for the necessary budget allocation. Show how mobile devices are not just expenses but tools that support business growth and efficiency. Involving both IT and finance in strategic planning discussions ensures that mobile device needs are considered proactively rather than reactively, which can lead to better financial planning and less conflict.