Going Mobile to Improve Efficiency

While still in its infancy, mobile technology is already revolutionizing the way we interact with computers, making our daily information tasks more portable. Between phone, e-mail and SMS communication, Internet capabilities, GPS navigation and calendars with integrated task lists, mobile devices are gradually redrawing the boundaries of the office.

Some companies are finding even more ways to put mobile devices to work (though they may look a bit different from your average smartphone). Ranging from relatively simple wireless barcode scanners to high-powered devices loaded with customized software, mobile devices are being used to collect complex data and transfer it where needed.

For quite a few years, parcel delivery personnel have been using mobile devices to document delivery times and recipient signatures. Now, mobile devices are also being used by first responders on disaster sites, allowing them to collect medical information, take photos for documentation, print barcode bracelets and transmit the data to the hospital before patients even arrive. More common applications include devices that allow retail customers to add products to gift registries simply by scanning item barcodes. Whatever the business context, mobile devices not only cut down on lag time between remote personnel and the main office, but they also improve accuracy and minimize time-consuming data entry and paperwork.

Recognizing this potential for mobile computing, Brady Communications recently solved a client's data problem by developing ConnexionMobile, a software application for heavy equipment dealers. ConnexionMobile provides field service technicians with handheld mobile devices to use on service and maintenance calls. The mobile software links technicians in the field with their managers and support staff back at headquarters, tracking usage of filters and fluids and delivering paperless inspection reports that facilitate detailed, timely billing. Using the device's built-in camera and microphone, technicians can document their work with photos and audio notes. The application also has a Web interface that allows managers to assign and transmit work order information to technicians in the field.

For heavy equipment dealers, ConnexionMobile's data collection application not only saves time and money, but also improves accountability and communication with technicians out on service calls. Find out more about this application, as well as the PDA prototype application we developed for Celebrity Cruises.