Smart launches next generation M2M communications services

Smart Communications is launching a new suite of next generation machine-to-machine (M2M) communications services that will not only generate fresh revenue streams for it but also help other companies raise their operational efficiencies.

To be offered under the umbrella of its “Smart Enterprise” business unit, these applications are designed to address the requirements of businesses like merchandising, logistics and pharmaceuticals, among others.

“Aside from the existing M2M business applications deployed by the PLDT group in the past, Smart Enterprise is launching new services this year that will change the landscape for enterprise applications,” Smart chief wireless advisor Orlando Vea said

The first of these offerings is called Tollway Pass. It is an application designed for corporate customers with fleet operations, as well as tollway and parking operators.

In the case of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), for instance, Smart developed a solution using Smart Money as a payment account so that those who travel through the NLEX need not worry about manual payments so long as their Smart Money accounts are active.

The integration of the Manila North Tollways Corp. (MNTC) infrastructure with the Smart payment facilities will allow cost effective and efficient management of travel expenses for enterprise customers with fleet operations particularly for those travelling through NLEX.

By creating a single, fully-redundant road toll payment facility, MNTC and Smart will provide enterprise customers with the tools that allow them to monitor and manage their fleet with much ease.

Productivity and efficiency are likewise expected to improve considering less interruptions and delays at the toll booths, he said.

Also in the works is smart metering wherein the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) will deploy digital meters with modems.

Prepaid metering and broadband over powerlines (BPL) are also some of the synergy projects which PLDT and Meralco are working on.

PLDT senior vice president Eric Alberto meanwhile said healthcare is also one area that could benefit from these enterprise solutions.

PLDT sister company Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) owns or manages six hospitals, including Makati Medical Center.

In the area of healthcare, Vea said they are piloting electronic health records in Iloilo and e-referral system in Iloilo. “We are also doing remote prosthetics profiling wirelessly,” he added.