SECAUCUS, NJ - To better serve the growing demand for technology in the construction and mining markets, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company announces the availability of a white paper - done in conjunction with leading technology analysts Venture Development Corporation - addressing the importance of using TCO analysis in acquiring mobile technology solutions.  The paper, titled "Mapping Technical and Operational Challenges of Mobile Computing Deployments: Using TCO Analysis to Identify the Ideal Mobile Computing Solution for Frontline Workers" can be found in the "Knowledge Center" of the Panasonic Toughbook web site at: http://www.panasonic.com/business/toughbook/about-knowledge-center-white-paper.asp

Even in this age of technology dependency, the construction and mining industries - as well as organizations in other markets with mobile workforces - frequently make mobility investment decisions with incomplete information or a general misunderstanding of the environments in which their solutions are to be deployed. Combined with today's tough economic climate and pressure to cut costs, companies often purchase solutions that do not map to their users' environments because of perceived saving - they purchase based on price.

VDC research shows that mobile device purchase price accounts for less than 30% of total deployment costs. Because of this, it is important that technology decision makers take a deep look at all costs in order to truly evaluate their technology options.

"Unfortunately, it's fairly common for companies to make mobile technology purchases based on insufficient data," said Kyp Walls, director, product management, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company.  "This often results in a poor return on investment and lost revenue and efficiency opportunities.  We believe this white paper will empower companies with mobile technology needs to make more informed decisions, resulting in a positive long term impact."

This whitepaper outlines the hard and soft costs related to mobility projects, providing guidelines - such as user segmentation - to help project leaders make the best long-term decisions. It will discuss in detail the following points: