Does size matter?

As you develop your mobile enterprise application, select your mobile device very carefully -- it may ruin your chances of rolling out a really successful mobile application.

Mobile phones: Cheap and easy to use, long battery life, but cumbersome for data entry, difficult to read.

PDAs without keypads: Heavier, more costly to buy and replace, shorter battery life, somewhat cumbersome for data entry, somewhat easier to read.

PDAs with keypads, Blackberry: Same as above, but better for data entry.

Tablet PC: Even shorter battery life, but more convenient for data entry (if your arms don't get tired). Compatible with virtually all PC software.

Notebook PC: Very short battery life but best system performance. Don't carry it around too long or it might get unpleasantly warm. Data entry is impossible unless you find a desk.