Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is in house, online, and in the field. ERP appears to be everywhere these days and field service ERP is making its play. New open standards solutions are being developed to extend the reach of the enterprise platform. Productivity is extended to the field for access to information for servicing customers. Now, with the use of laptops, smartphones and iPads, such information as inventory status, service orders and service data can be accessed from the field or directly form a customer’s place of business. The ERP move to mobile was inevitable, as the technology and the desire for mobile applications have grown. For the first time, mobile applications are growing faster than sales of personal computers. People want it when they want it and where they want it.

ERP Software

Field Service ERP is on the run      

This of course makes ERP even more desirable to those who are about to make the transition to enterprise software. Large corporations that have ERP installed on-site are also utilizing Web-based Software as a Service and now mobile ERP. Small businesses, many of which have not yet made the move to enterprise software are beginning to realize just how important this transition can be. With the ability to now experience the software online in a hosted version and the opportunity to also have a mobile application, they can really extend their reach and grow their market share. Both mobile and ERP are growing hand in hand.

And customers appreciate the convenience and service convenience that field service ERP provides. Information is available from anywhere and when folks are on the move and seeking data from wherever they are located, this becomes indispensable. It’s also practical. Orders can be updated on the spot, errors can be eliminated and no paper-based record keeping is necessary. Smartphones, because of their size, are especially adaptable for ERP on the road.

An erp application designed for smartphones can provide access to more functionality and include a module to manage authorization and authentication. Open standards for this platform can also include a service access layer that provides a foundation for integration with other mobile devices on a number of platforms.

This is a big benefit to service technicians as it can save them time and their company’s money.They can process information and data directly into their mobile application and upload it to headquarter. They can also input information regarding the job in the field, such as services provided, time spent and customer feedback. This all takes place in real time and is delivered to the company instantaneously, or the data can be saved on the device and upon returning to the plant, be uploaded to a server. Now that’s progress.

Field service ERP will undoubtedly take off in a big way in the near future, as mobile devices continue to take the lead in mobility access. It extends the reach of the enterprise and offers another option for providing better customer service. Information, on demand, from wherever it is located; that is just another advancement on the enterprise highway.

Written by :

kristine H