The iPad isn’t just a hot new consumer device, it’s also an increasingly popular tool for business. Every week we take a look at the latest developments in its use in the enterprise.
This week we look at iPad-only applications for sales people, a company bringing Microsoft SharePoint to the iPad and other touchscreen devices, Mozy’s iOS app and more.
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FatStax
FatStax is an iPad app for sales people. It was designed specifically for the iPad.
It gives sales staff access to product catalogs while on the road, including offline search. It lets users send information from the catelog directly to customers, or place orders from the iPad. It also has CRM-like contact and lead management tools.
Mobile Entree
Mobile Entree helps Microsoft SharePoint developers create smartphone and tablet-optimized interfaces. It’s not a native app, but a SharePoint add-on. It’s developed by H3 Solutions, a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner.
The new version, 2.3, was released this week to provide better support for larger screens.
Mozy
Popular online backup service Mozy released an iOS application this week. At the moment, it’s only available for its consumer-oriented MozyHome accounts, not its business focused MozyPro accounts. The company promises Pro support in the future. When it does, Mozy will join services likeBox and Dropbox in offering business-grade online storage for iOS.
Plus: Dell, Microsoft Execs on the iPad and Tablets
Also this week, Andy Lark, an enterprise marketing executive at Dell, suggested the iPad would fail in the enterprise because it’s too complicated and expensive and Microsoft Chief Strategy Officer Craig Mundie said tablets may be a passing fad.
It’s hard to believe either statement, considering the traction the iPad already has in the enterprise and the failure of competitors like Dell and Microsoft to gain any traction in the market. It seems more like wishful thinking on both executives’ parts.
However, I’m not unsympathetic to Mundie’s position. The iPad has only been around for a year now. What breakthroughs in interfaces and form factors could come in the next 10 years?
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