Client Overview
Severn Trent Water is a FTSE 50 utility provider delivering drinking water and wastewater services to more than 8 million customers across the Midlands. Field teams depend on mobile devices for meter reading, asset management and maintenance across a large operational network.
The Challenge: Addressing Technology Obsolescence
The mobile devices used across meter reading operations had reached end of support, with no further updates available, creating operational delays and security gaps. A rugged replacement suitable for demanding outdoor conditions was required. The incumbent vendor exited the Android ecosystem, prompting the need to source a replacement.
The Solution: A Rugged, Modern Mobility Platform
After assessing several suppliers, Severn Trent selected JCB Tough Phones. The decision focused on adopting a modern Android platform, improving device usability without requiring an additional protective case for durability, securing faster support through a UK‑based service model, and reducing overall costs compared to legacy hardware. Branded hand straps were also introduced to support safe and comfortable use in the field.
Expanding the Partnership Across Field Use Cases
The initial requirement was a durable device suitable for meter reading. As deployment progressed, further opportunities emerged. Rugged tablets were introduced for teams needing larger displays to support operational planning and reporting. Built‑in scanning functions on JCB devices also replaced dedicated scanners, reducing the amount of equipment engineers carried and simplifying device management. These additions enabled more efficient asset recording and streamlined operations across multiple field teams.
Results: Strong Performance Within Six Months
JCB Tough Phones have demonstrated strong, reliable performance since deployment, with their durability and ease of use boosting confidence across field teams and helping to minimise operational disruption.
Conclusion
JCB Tough Phones enabled Severn Trent to address the risks of outdated mobile hardware and establish a more reliable, scalable mobility platform. Their combination of rugged design, modern Android capability and responsive UK support has provided a dependable solution for current operational needs and positioned the organisation for future digital improvements. Severn Trent recommends JCB Tough Phones to other organisations seeking to modernise field mobility solutions.
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