OneBridge's device-management functionality is complex. You can deploy applications to client devices by device type, user group or individual user. The system backup and restore function, which can be initiated by the user or scheduled by an administrator, allows for recovery of mobile clients. Also, a device-information option collects system attributes so that administrators can monitor battery usage, installed applications and stored files. Because wireless adapters on PDAs cut battery life short, the Live Connect software's always-on feature is turned off automatically when the battery runs low.
Several technical features set OneBridge Mobile Groupware apart. OneBridge does not use SMS (Short Message Service) messages, which can be slow and unreliable and are not supported over wireless LANs or Ethernet networks. And OneBridge uses robust security--all message staging occurs behind the firewall, and all connections use FIPS140-2-compliant end-to-end encryption.
Some Potholes
There's only one major problem with OneBridge: Although the software supports many client devices, it supports only Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Notes on the back end. Users of Novell Groupwise or IMAP-based products have been left out in the cold.
Also, some organizations might find OneBridge Mobile Connect's relatively high price hard to justify, especially when constant connectivity is more of a convenience than a necessity. But for enterprises that employ workers who are constantly on the go, the return on investment may be much greater, particularly when communication between the home office and mobile workers is key to productivity.