Stop-by-stop tracking
Total Activity Control from Clear Computing provides customizable stop-by-stop tracking that lets users monitor business operations in real time. Among the benefits are real-time visual monitoring of activity start and completion, status to flag problem work activities, profit and loss by service stop as each stop is completed, profit and loss for each work order once invoiced, and faster invoicing of completed work.
The product gives drivers an easy method to send back the status at each location throughout the day. Single-click indications of job start and end and additional information can be sent to provide extra work to be invoiced, normal billable work completion, and status for potential additional sales. 888/332-5327; www.clearcomputing.com.
Attaching files or documents
JLinkit from FamHost enables users to attach any file or document to specific customer records from any computer or wireless device in five ways: E-mail (enter in the subject line the name of the record to be attached); virtual folder (slide or save a file into the JLinkit folder on a laptop or computer); FamScan (scan batches of documents and JLink them); JLinkit.com (visit the website and browse to the desired file from any computer); and smart media devices (send photos of a jobsite by turning on a camera anywhere there is free Wi-Fi and upload the files). 800/658-1676; www.famhost.com.
Interactive mapping
The Pipeline Observation System Management
POSM Map Reader is an interactive mapping application that improves inspection efficiency and accuracy. POSM Pro users can easily retrieve and input inspection data into a session using existing GIS data for quick and accurate reporting.
POSM Map Reader uses a published ESRI map to display map data, GPS to locate the current position, and links to POSM inspections. With the GPS layer enabled into the map, a NEMA GPS receiver can be used to find the position on the map. Once the pipe identifier field has been set, the user can click on the map and have the identifier sent to POSM.
The map can also be used to enable hyperlinks when the map is clicked. This lets users open the POSM inspection stored on the POSM Server. Search functions are built into the map, allowing users to select a layer and field to search the map. Search results are highlighted on the map. 859/274-0041; www.posm.us.
Detailed or summary work orders
Version 4 of Summit Service Profit Builder software from Ritam Technologies offers detailed or summary work orders with complete job history and diagrams. Other features include customer maintenance agreements for ongoing revenue, appointment dispatching or priority dispatching options, automatic reminder cards, automatic repeat jobs, automatic batch or individual e-mail invoices and statements, integrated credit card processing, driver efficiency reporting, geographic view of routes plus revenues, optional parts inventory tracking on individual trucks, 24/7 access to a training video library, and QuickBooks and PeachTree integration. 800/662-8471; www.ritam.com.
Real-time job data
Mobile Technician software from SWRemote allows service contractors and technicians to send and receive real-time job data while on service calls using ruggedized mobile devices. It integrates with SuccessWare21 operations and management software to automate many routine service call processes, allowing technicians to spend more time on revenue-generating activities.
The system automates service orders, invoices, inventory management and time cards. Technicians can close sales faster, submit material requisitions, suggest and document recommended future repairs, print invoices, and receive credit card payments from jobsites. Meanwhile, office staff no longer bogged down by data entry and invoicing can spend more time scheduling service calls and acting on sales opportunities.
A related Mobile Inventory tool is an on-truck and in-warehouse software that cuts inventory control expenses by managing receipts, transfers, requisitions, returns and physical counts from one mobile device. 800/299-2079; www.swremote.com.
