For instance, the NewsMate application for BlackBerry smartphones allows users to read newspapers turning pages as if they were printed on paper. Developed by Italian-based company Softec, provider of global mobility solutions, the application lets users read articles that are categorized into different topics such as current affairs, politics or sport, by virtually turning pages.
Maurizio Bottaini, CEO Softec, explained that the application responds to the signs of change in the newspaper publishing sector and offers an interesting platform for publishers, advertising agents and other companies to transmit information, accommodate advertising opportunities and incorporate payment-based services.
Another application, Guardian24, was developed for the BlackBerry platform by a British company with the same name, in compliance with British Standard 8484 safety regulations.
Guardian24 allows users to log their daily tasks and whereabouts, send GPS locations and raise alerts in case of danger. The application was designed for lone employees whose safety is an important issue. The alert is sent by pressing a panic button on the smartphone, even if the keyboard is locked. A live function opens a communications channel with security services, transmitting user’s up-to-date details so that appropriate assistance can be sent.
“In today’s business environment, lone and mobile working can be an essential part of an organization’s drive for greater efficiency and cost control. Providing these employees with lone worker support services is essential if employers are to meet their responsibilities under health and safety legislation”, said Geoff Hayter, Executive Director, Guardian24.
Guardian24 already has over 26,000 subscribers on its service in UK alone. The increased demand in these alert-based applications seems obvious after a recent UK crime survey reflected an estimated 627,000 incidents of violence at work, comprising 321,000 assaults and 305,000 threats, showing the need for addressing health and safety risks in this environment.
Clients who already adopted the application include Group 4 Securicor, Fife Council and several major financial institutions.
