Wireless Communications Products- One Size Does Not Fit All

Buying a product like a cell phone seems easy enough. Most people probably just find a handset model that "looks cool." They go to their local cellular agent, sign a contract for whatever plan they can afford, and take their new phone home.

Over the years I have found there is more to be said about finding the right service provider AND the right equipment. This applies not just to wireless but other subscriptions and communication tools like home phone, business phone systems, internet, security, and more. Not a lot of thought is put into matching services to the individual user's need.

To me the most important features of any service plan and related equipment are function, reliability, and value.

The equipment should function properly to do what you need it to do. Your needs will vary for many reasons. Do you text message frequently? Do you need big buttons? Does your business or job require Smartphone functions?

Your service needs to be RELIABLE. A lot of people still use cell phones primarily for emergencies. If you are broken down on a back road somewhere late at night, will your phone get reception? Others depend on communication devices for basic and advanced business functions. Your business may not be able to afford missing an important call or having your internet down for several hours. It's not worth saving a dollar to lose thousands.

Reliable service and needed functions at the right price create value. An individual who doesn't use text or web functions probably doesn't need a smart phone with a 1500 minute plan w/ text and data bundle. He might not even need a 400 minute plan or a contract plan at all.

On the other hand, if your business depends on it and has heavy usage, spending twenty or thirty bucks a month for wireless web and data is probably money well spent.

Upcoming articles will explore the available providers of wireless services, what they have to offer, and who should consider purchasing them.