Several industries, especially the ones that have a field workforce are gradually experiencing the need to upgrade their communication platforms to more efficient digital alternatives. Presently, a majority of the field employees used walkie-talkie radios or cellular smartphones, or both in order to stay connected with their line managers and crew members. Fleet drivers or employees working at mining sites, manufacturing plants, etc. would agree that seamless communication is a must to keep their operations running smoothly. 

Unfortunately, there are not many powerful communication tools that cater to the diverse needs of the field workforce. Mobile workforces, field workforces, or even frontline workforces such as facility managers, retail executives, hotel and restaurant managers, etc. need a mode of communication that is not only ultra-fast but simple at the same time. 

Push-to-talk is a technology that stands out in terms of speed, simplicity and reliability when it comes to other modes of communication. Modern-day push-to-talk technology has taken the form of apps that can be easily integrated into smartphones to overcome the drawbacks of the almost outdated radio systems. 

What Are Push-To-Talk Apps?

Push-to-talk apps are software that enable push-button connectivity over cellular networks once installed on the users’ smartphones. Modern-day push-to-talk apps are readily integrated with popular OS types such as Android and iOS. Some powerful push-to-talk apps also show compatibility with rugged smartphones and custom-built devices. With this, users can use their smartphones as walkie-talkies and leverage instant push-button connectivity over cellular networks, unlike traditional push-to-talk devices like walkie-talkies radios that present range limitations and poor audio quality.

How Do Push-to-Talk Apps Help to Improve Operational Efficiency?

It is true that push-to-talk apps allow users to skip carrying bulky radio devices to work, but how do they play a role in streamlining operational efficiency for businesses? Let’s find out.

1. One-Touch Connectivity

Push-to-talk apps allow employees to leverage instant push-button two-way half-duplex communication. When engaging on-field in labour-intensive tasks, employees need not stop their work to conduct lengthy dialing or texting procedures. With push-to-talk apps, smartphones mimic the quick connectivity function of a walkie-talkie which saves time and effort.

2. Privacy-Focused Group Communications

Managing a mobile workforce means that several teams have to connect frequently to discuss business-critical matters, as well as relay organizational updates. Both, traditional walkie-talkie radios, as well as cellular phone calls, are generally limited to 1-1 connectivity, which does not leave room for group discussions. Digital push-to-talk apps allow businesses to create public and private groups or channels to leverage group PTT communication. With this, employees need not spend time making multiple 1-1 calls. It also helps distributed teams to arrive at a common decision faster.

3. Anywhere Connectivity

One of the primary reasons why radio communication is growing outdated is because of the area-based limitations. Walkie-talkie radios offer a limited coverage area and present low-quality audio with immense static noise. Push-to-talk over cellular overcomes this challenge by enabling users to connect from anywhere in the world with crystal clear audio quality and encrypted communication. This plays a vital role in enhancing a team’s performance since they are not limited to communicating with nearby colleagues but can consult their line managers, superiors or other verticals of their organization with ease.

4. Multi-Device Support

One of the best characteristics of modern-day push-to-talk apps is that they are compatible with a wide range of devices and OS types. Powerful PTT apps like NuovoTeam integrate seamlessly with Android and iOS smartphones, rugged smartphones, custom-built devices, and even work on desktops or any machine that has a Chrome browser. Push-to-talk apps that support the desktop PTT function enable their office workforce to connect with the field workforce effortlessly by making PTT calls straight from their PCs. This saves ample time and effort required otherwise to switch constantly between smartphones and desktops to stay connected with the remote teams.

5. Beyond Voice Communication

The greatest advantage of push-to-talk apps is that they seamlessly integrate with the employees’ smartphones, due to which employees are not required to carry multiple devices to their workplace. But what’s more beneficial is that most modern-day PTT apps come bundled with a plethora of communication features beyond just voice communication. You can share images, text messages, videos and even locations using a single PTT app.

Closing Lines

Studies show that 86% of the employees blame a lack of effective communication for workplace failures. Implementing digital push-to-talk solutions help businesses accelerate communications between their diverse teams and improve decision-making and information exchange for enhanced operational efficiency. NuovoTeam is a popular push-to-talk app that not only helps employees turn their smartphones into walkie-talkies, but also offers a plethora of instant communication features for real-time seamless communication.