As Bluetooth beacon technology rapidly gains popularity, many businesses are considering deployments but may be unsure how to implement successfully across large facilities. Following key strategies will help maximize value from beacon networks for both customers and operations.
Identify Highest-Impact Use Cases
Start by brainstorming specific ways beacons can provide value based on your business. Prioritize 3-5 top use cases with highest potential ROI. Build a phased rollout roadmap focused on those applications first. Common high-value uses include proximity messaging, micro-locations, wayfinding, asset tracking and workflow automation.
Select Beacon Hardware for the Environment
With many hardware options now available, choose beacon models optimal for your use cases and facilities. Consider key factors like battery life, durability, attachment mechanisms and detection ranges. For large campuses, a zone-based topology with varied signal strength beacons offers flexibility. Support for multiple vendor beacons enables future scalability.
Develop the Software Ecosystem
Well-designed mobile apps and integrations are crucial to unlocking the potential of beacons. Prioritize developing the app experience in tandem, tying beacon interactions into backend systems like analytics, CRM, and ERP. Provide content management capabilities to update messaging and campaigns. Deliver a seamless experience.
Design the Network Architecture
Map out placement locations for optimal positioning without redundancy. Carefully overlap signal areas for consistent coverage across zones with line of sight to mobile devices. Consider mounting locations and density. Deploy in phases if needed based on learnings. Proper architecture is key for accurate detection.
Leverage Management and Analytics
Use a centralized management platform to configure, monitor, troubleshoot and analyze beacons enterprise-wide. Look for remote management capabilities like battery alerts, firmware updates, and location mapping. APIs allow integration with other business systems for a holistic view.
Conduct Extensive On-site Testing
Test extensively on location before full rollout to confirm positioning and proximity detection meets use case needs. Walk through key scenarios and make adjustments. Thorough testing ensures optimal user experiences while allowing staff to gain familiarity with the technology.
Provide Internal Training
Educate team members across departments on beacon capabilities so they can help inform and assist customers. Demonstrate how beacons improve individual workflows through automation. Training ensures engagement, optimization of the network, and better support.
Following structured strategies for network design, software integration, analytics, and testing will allow enterprises to gain maximum value from beacon technology for better customer and employee experiences.
