When you are looking for new apps do you look for “Point Solutions” or “Integrated Solutions”? What is the difference between the two? To explore this topic I will first explain my take on the two aspects.
A “Point Solution” app has a singular function that accomplishes one task. For example: there are apps that take photos, that create safety reports, or view plans.
A “Integrated Solution” app has multiple functions that communicate with other systems. For example: most financial software systems coordinate employee time, billings, and rental items.
When you starting a Mobile Device Program or revising a current one, you must look at and evaluate these two app styles. You must think through…
1. What you are trying to accomplish with the app.
2. How will the app communicate with other apps.
2. Where does the data from the app need to be stored.
Here is one example to think about from the “Point Solution” side of the table. Let’s say that part of you Mobile Device Program strategy is to find a app that will replace your old paper based safety inspection system. This app allows you to create and distribute forms to your team. After completing the inspections and reports these items can be converted to a PDF and emailed to the office. Now someone at your office must receive, open and review these reports. The reports must be moved from email to a server and organized for future use.
To analyze the information in these reports, one will have to log the results in a separate spreadsheet or database. Once the original report data is entered into a new database then it can be analyzed and trending reports can be created. This is effective a four step process:
1. Field staff creates a report.
2. Field staff sends report to main office.
3. Office staff opens and reviews report data.
4. Office staff addd data to spreadsheet for trend comparison.
There are some apps that make sense for “Point Solutions”. My original MObile Device Strategy focused on five separate apps that all did things well, but did not integrate with other apps. My current plan is evolving to incorporate more “Integrated Solutions”. Check back next week to read more about this process.
The Construction App Guru 