05.24.2016
Barcoding, Inc., a leader in supply chain efficiency, accuracy, and connectivity, offers advice on post-Windows Mobile application development. With the inevitable decline in Windows Mobile devices, the systems integrator is guiding enterprises through mass migrations – porting apps to Android and iOS platforms, and recommending development tools.
Although Microsoft extended support for the Windows Mobile platform through 2020, application development tools for the operating system (OS) have not been updated since 2008. Now, enterprises running Windows Mobile applications (many featuring legacy code) are determining a plan of action to prepare for the future. For companies looking to make the migration, Barcoding suggests the following five tips:
• Select the Right OS: The Android OS and iOS are filling the gap left by Windows Mobile. When selecting an OS, first consider the type of application you are running and what you want to do with your device. Do you need a touch screen interface or a keypad? A large or small screen? Does your device have to withstand harsh environments?
• Reuse Code with a Cross-platform Mobile Development Solution: You can save time and effort by reusing some of your existing code with a cross-platform mobile development solution, like Xamarin or PhoneGap. Xamarin allows you to “copy and paste” the C# business logic from a Windows Mobile app and reuse it in a ported app, while PhoneGap allows you to run a webpage remotely on a device with an extension for accessing device features, like a barcode scanner.
• Re-think the User Interface (UI): Since you can’t port over a UI, take the time to re-think how you want it to look on your new platform. How does it work? How does the screen go from one screen to another? And, how can you make it even better than it was with Windows Mobile?
• Don’t Let Cost Deter You: Especially if you are performing a mass migration, understand that you are going to have to spend some capital to “get out” of Windows Mobile. But, think about it: what is the real cost of becoming stuck on a legacy device that is no longer produced?
• Partner with an Expert: If you don’t have the resources or expertise on staff to drive your migration, consult an outside expert. A third-party vendor can augment your development team and also guide you through selecting a new platform.
“The end is near for Windows Mobile, and it’s been a long time coming,” said Jack Nosek, lead software engineer, Barcoding, Inc. “While this isn’t too much of an inconvenience for the average consumer, the demise of Windows Mobile is creating challenges for enterprise-level users. Now is the time to explore options for making the migration to an alternative platform in order to remain efficient, accurate, and connected.”
Contact Barcoding’s Software Services Division to learn more about how to prepare for application development in a post-Windows Mobile world: http://barcoding.com/Services/software/index.shtml
barcoding.com
