Quality, criteria and requirements apply everywhere even when considering tablets, hardware and software.
Overall requirements to consider:
ACCESS
Wi Fi or 3G, Speed and Offline
REVIEW & MARK UP
Finger, pen or both
PHOTO ATTACHMENT
Ease, compression, multiple images
COMMUNICATE
Speed, simplicity, reliability, offline
NEW RECORD
Tracking, follow ups, reminders, priorities, live knowledge capture
STORAGE
Record size and compression, versioning
Other considerations include:
· Integrated software
· Simple (intuitive)
· Fast (fewer clicks the better)
· Efficient (what fits on the screen)
· Mobile (rugged) Things you need to do in the field while on the move:
o Observe
o Record
o Photograph
o Annotate
o Communicate
o Question
o Answer
· Learn the good and the bad (about both hardware and software0
· Versatile (touch or write or both – can this be done in the cold, with gloves on)
· Compact (screen size & weight)
· Cost effective (best value)
Finally, of course use PDCA.
Plan for what you want, get input from other builders and your field and office staff on what they need, want and desire.
Detail what they actually do. Then before translating to the new system IMPROVE IT!
Pilot the product and change over before making a decision.
Then get feedback on what works and doesn’t so you can make adjustments.
(Data from Brian Palmquist, Auditing at the Edge, ASQ Audit Division Conference, 2011)
About the Author
Denis Leonard
Denis Leonard has a degree in construction engineering, and an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. in quality management. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Quality and has been an Examiner for the Baldrige National Quality Award Board of Examiners, a Judge on the International Team Excellence Competition, and a Lead Judge on the National Housing Quality Award. He has experience as a quality manager in the home building industry as well as construction engineer, site manager, and in training, auditing, and consulting with expertise in strategic and operational quality improvement initiatives. His work has achieved national quality, environmental, and safety management awards for clients.