|
News
Issue #2002 - 14
(April 2002)
(Updated Apr.
10, 2002)
OPINION &
ADVICE
The U.S. Postal Service Will Soon End
Its Foray Into Wireless Services For Customers
On April 7, the Postal Service will
stop providing wireless services that include tracking packages,
locating the nearest post office, and finding ZIP codes. The wireless
pilot effort didn't garner enough customer support to make it a viable
offering, according to a statement on the Postal Service Web site.
Meanwhile, FedEx Corp. two weeks ago revealed an agreement with
AT&T for its next-generation wireless technology. Giga Information
Group analyst Carl Zetie points out that the contrasting wireless
strategies "could almost be a parable of how to choose an
application to invest in for wireless technology."
Good wireless services must be urgent
and relevant to what customers are doing now. But mail sent by the
Postal Service typically isn't as time-sensitive as packages sent by
FedEx or United Parcel Service, so wireless tracking has limited
appeal for Postal Service customers. Locating the nearest post office
could be useful for business travelers, except that most hotels have
business services that handle shipping needs. "Anytime you do a
wireless service, it has to be aligned with the business
process," Zetie says. "You have to ask the question, why
would anybody do this here?"
A report from the General Accounting
Office further illustrates the Postal Service's struggle to do
business in the digital age. The Postal Service had hoped its
E-commerce initiatives would generate $104 million in 2001, but that
was an overly optimistic target. During the first three quarters of
2001, according to the GAO, the Postal Service produced less than 1%
of that amount with E-commerce. - Sandra Swanson
Mobileinfo Comments & Advisory: This
story is a great reminder for businesses to think before they leap
into uncharted waters. It is foolish to assume that customers will
come if there is a wireless application. Customers will come if they
see value in a wireless application.
Note: This news release may contain
forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in
developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology
architectures. All trademarks used in this summary are
the property of their respective owners.
|
