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Freeway is a remote application that integrates with Ostendo. As such it is able to capture valuable information via tablet or phone without needing to access Ostendo.

This has extended the use of Ostendo into many new areas, as it enable staff to be able to enter data while in the field, and while out of access to internet.

However, because of the breadth of use of Freeway, it is easier to explain its use in a business scenario.

Generally, the problems that we see with remote staff revolve around communication difficulties and ensuring that the remote staff are following established processes and complying with requirements.

So imagine a business that is using Ostendo and using the jobs module to schedule staff. The staff are using Freeway on a current iPhone.

A client rings in about an equipment breakdown that requires urgent repair. The scheduler is able to log into Ostendo to see a map displaying where the technicians are currently located via the GPS on their phones.

The scheduler is able to assign the job to the closest technician in Ostendo via the Assignment Board and sends an SMS to the technician.

The technician is able to accept or decline the job. Assuming the technician accepts the job, he is then able to see the details of the job on his phone and see the Google directions to the client.

Once the technician gets to the job, the time tracking in Ostendo can be started automatically, costing the labour to the job and can also update the status of the job in Ostendo.

He can be presented with a hazard checklist with risk levels for that particular client’s site, and have a sign off section to acknowledge that he is aware of the risks.

The techie can look up prior history on the equipment and download any associated documents.

Work instructions can also be presented via a checklist – this can be used to set up diagnostic steps or as a compliance checklist.

At the same time, the repairman can update any readings – such as odometer readings or hour readings.

If materials are used on the job, this can also be recorded and costed to the job. Or if materials need to be purchased, then this is flagged to the purchasing department and also is costed to the job.

Each type of job can be set up to capture different types of information:

After completing the job, the technician can take a photo of the finished job, record audio notes about the work done (and convert audio to text), and flag a followup visit. The client can sign off that the work has been done satisfactorily and then a service report can be sent to the client and the office. The status of the assignment is then updated to reflect that the job is complete and an SMS sent back from the office from a pre-defined list of messages.

So with the use of Freeway and Ostendo, the whole remote communication and managing of staff, process and compliance are dealt with.

The job of the technician is made so much simpler, with the full history of the work on the equipment being made accessible, and updating of work with full costs streamlined.

Back in the office, the data is captured against the job, reducing double handling and data entry, as well as providing management with updated work status, job costs and information.

So overall, there is improved information and efficiency on the road and in the office.

Contact us at 2 Peas if you are interested in exploring Freeway for your business.