First-generation mobile field systems tend to serve as single point solutions. That is, they provide a limited application to perform a single function. They tend to consist of unilateral scheduling, dispatch, data capture or monitoring functions, but little else. These solutions were state of the art just a year or two ago, and most organizations realized impressive returns based on the efficiencies they gained in very specific field tasks, but at a high cost and limited deployment. The field technicians still do their jobs pretty much the same way they have for the last 50 years.

Next generation solutions will integrate location data and wireless communications beyond the single task focus and provide a richer "performance support" environment. Functionality will be designed, not just to execute a specific task, but to enhance overall performance across multiple applications. In addition, next generation field solutions should provide a suite of ‘Field’ standard applications similar to the ‘Office’ standards like word processing, email, schedule and spreadsheet.

Reprinted with Permission from Hargis Field Information Systems