The design look and feel of handsets are important and other things being equal may influence the choice of solution.  Handset functionality, ease of use and fit with the working environment can be deciding factors in which technology is chosen.  

The work process can influence the choice of wireless technology.  For example, 

• Does the work process involve capturing data and accessing information held elsewhere? 
• Does the work process require the user to receive alert type warning messages? 
• Is the solution being used in a shift working environment where handsets will be shared? 
• Does the user need to access a web based application? 
• Is a specific handset functionality or feature needed to help staff do their job? 

The initial investment required, the on-going costs, the ROI and future expansion are all key influencers and can decide the technology chosen.

Investment costs will depend on the existing infrastructure.  On-going costs could be influenced by the spare capacity built into the system for expansion.  However, if  the investment cost of a solution is higher than the other solution this does not rule it out.  Productivity gains as a result of it being a better fit with the work process may mean greater and better ROI.

Both the KIRK DECT and Spectralink Wi-Fi solutions have technological characteristics which may influence their use in a particular environment.  For example,

• Will the solution work in the legacy telephony and IT environment
• Is the environment subject to RF interference
• Is the solution able to scale to provide the coverage
• Is the solution able to scale to the number of handsets required

The operational performance required, and demands made of the on-site mobility solution can influence the technology decision.  For example,

• Will the handsets need to work for a full day or more without  re-charge?
• Will the solution need to provide for handset use in noisy environments?
• Will the solution need to provide the sound quality of a wired handset
• Will users need to roam whilst on a call?
• Will the solution need to provide coverage in areas where there is no power or LAN connectivity?