More and more companies are now beginning to apply location-based services over wireless LANs to enable some rather interesting enhancements to applications. In general, a location-based system (LBS) keeps track of the position of users on the network as they roam through the facility. A centralized system collects and integrates this position information to drive additional functions that identify the position of users in relation to the facility and pertinent areas, such as information booths, emergency centers, stores, products, etc.

Let's take a closer look at how LBSs can offer value in various industries.

When most people think of wireless LANs, they generally only consider transferring data while using applications such as a Web browser, e-mail client, for file transfer, etc. It's possible, however, to use a wireless LAN as the transport system for carrying telephone traffic from mobile users as well. Voice over Wireless LANs (VoWLANs) are beginning to proliferate.

The Ohio State University Medical Center (OSUMC), situated in Columbus, is Central Ohio's most honored hospital with physicians and staff serving 800,000 patient visits each year. In addition, the hospital hosts $100 million worth of research each year, and operates a top-notch medical school. I recently visited OSUMC to observe their new fleet of robots.

The mobile workforce is rapidly becoming dependent on information, as they need to stay in touch via e-mail and continue to access corporate applications while on the road. Nearly all road warriors carry laptops today, and wireless connections are becoming very popular. Because of this, hotels are beginning to offer broadband wireless access throughout their facilities. Wireless LANs improve a guest's experience by providing complete mobility.