OneSite Facilities Mobile Service Requests

With OneSite Facilities and the mobile service requests option, your maintenance staff members can manage service requests using handheld devices, allowing them to stay on the job instead of in front of a computer, maximizing their efficiency. Technicians equipped with Pocket PCs can check their lists of assigned service requests from anywhere, anytime. The maintenance data in OneSite Facilities can be automatically synchronized with any Pocket PC using a wireless LAN or wireless service provider, or simple cradle synchronization method.

Why go mobile?

Going mobile will increase the efficiency and quality of your maintenance operations. A mobile maintenance management system keeps your technicians in the field while providing your managers with real-time information on the work being performed. The mobile service requests system is a tool that will improve the quality, accuracy, and timeliness of maintenance data—information essential to improving utilization, increasing efficiency, and benefiting the overall effectiveness of your maintenance operations.

Which mobile devices will work?

RealPage mobile service requests software has been tested using handheld devices from a variety of manufacturers. Several Pocket PC devices offered by the following manufacturers have already been proven to run OneSite Facilities mobile service requests*:

* RealPage mobile service requests are designed to operate on any device that supports Microsoft Pocket PC 2002, Pocket PC 2003, or Windows Mobile 5 operating system. We are currently in the process of certifying Mobile Service Requests on Windows Mobile 6. Go to microsoft.com for a list of compatible Pocket PC devices. (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/buyersguide/buy/ppc/americas.mspx)

Do I need to buy a wireless service plan?

No. The mobile service request software includes the ability to use a cradle to synchronize your service requests data using a local PC connected to the Internet. Cradle synchronization is the least expensive and most reliable method, and should be used at any property that uses a central key control system. Because the mobile service request system is designed to synchronize using the Internet, your Pocket PC can optionally be configured to synchronize with a wireless LAN system (a wireless system that does not involve monthly air time charges). Also, many wireless service providers offer Internet connectivity for Pocket PC devices for a reasonable monthly charge based on data transfer amount instead of applying regular airtime charges.

How much will a mobile system cost?

Installing a mobile work order system could more than pay for itself if your site offers wireless Internet access as an amenity. Using competitive prices for wireless LAN access, your system could actually be a source of additional revenue, instead of being an expense.