Across every industry, organisations are embracing digital transformation. From health and safety audits to ATEX compliance checks and routine maintenance reporting, more and more applications are replacing manual, paper-heavy processes. The goal is clear: improve efficiency, reduce errors, and give staff the tools they need to work smarter.
It is no surprise, then, that communication is also moving in this direction. Businesses that once relied on traditional telephone systems are now embracing smartphone-based solutions such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and other collaboration platforms. And in industrial and operational environments, push-to-talk (PTT) applications are emerging as a powerful alternative to traditional radio systems.
From Radios to Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PoC)
For decades, two-way radios were the backbone of instant communication. But their range was limited to on-site coverage, and the hardware often required specialist infrastructure. Push-to-talk over cellular (PoC) solutions remove those limitations. They use Wi-Fi or mobile networks to provide coverage not only across a site but also nationwide—and even internationally.
This shift is particularly valuable for staff who are not always on-site. Whether working from home, managing multiple facilities, or supporting customers directly, employees can stay connected wherever they are. PoC solutions are not just replacing radios; they are redefining what real-time communication can look like in the modern workplace.
Why Devices Still Matter
One important consideration is the way users interact with these systems. Radio users are used to the simplicity of pressing a button to broadcast instantly. Standard smartphones, however, introduce friction: the screen may be locked, requiring the user to unlock, navigate to the app, and then initiate communication.
This is why dedicated PTT-enabled smartphones, designed with a physical push-to-talk button, are becoming increasingly important. They combine the simplicity of a radio with the intelligence of a smartphone. Ruggedised PTT radios—essentially smartphones that look and behave like radios—offer another option. These are often more affordable and well suited for contractors who need reliable, temporary communication tools on customer sites.
Network Quality: The Invisible Backbone
Because PoC solutions rely on mobile and Wi-Fi networks, performance depends on reliable coverage and uptime. Organisations should therefore ensure that providers can demonstrate resilience in their SIM card and network setup, along with continuous monitoring of network performance. The ability to identify, analyse, and resolve issues quickly is essential to keeping communication seamless.
Thinking Beyond Today’s Needs
When evaluating solutions, forward-looking organisations are considering not only their immediate requirements but also what they might need in the future. For example:
- Security teams may want integration with access control systems, body-worn cameras, or lone worker protection features.
- Fire teams could benefit from receiving real-time fire alarm notifications directly to their devices, including detailed location information.
- Operational staff might rely on smartphone alerts for gas detection, power outages, or critical equipment failures.
In each of these cases, smartphones can act as a single, multi-functional device, reducing the need for employees to carry multiple pieces of hardware.
The Road Ahead
Smartphones are no longer just communication tools; they are becoming platforms for safety, efficiency, and operational excellence. Many of the applications available today already incorporate AI, and their capabilities will only expand over time.
The future is clear: push-to-talk applications will continue to gain ground as businesses seek more flexible, scalable, and integrated solutions. For organisations looking to modernise operations while empowering their workforce, the question is not if smartphones will take centre stage—it’s how soon.
If you would like to know more or see a demonstration of our PoC solution, please contact us today!
