HTML5 has been making a big impact, very quickly on mobility and the way businesses work. Its also clearing up concerns of iOS vs Android, Smartphone vs Tablet etc. arguments that have been holding enterprises from adopting a mobile App strategies.

We recently helped a Charlotte NC based IT Infrastructure provider define, design and develop an HTML5, mobile web App that replaces a legacy Application. The company runs on a mobile workforce, meeting SLA based responses to Client service calls.

One of the biggest concerns with the Company’s current Operations Model was the Web-based system that is used to manage Service Requests and Track Service calls. Technicians are expected to carry a Laptop around when making their day-to-day Service visits. A significant time is taken up in powering up a laptop, logging-in to the system and doing data entry.  It also meant heavy infrastructure costs on the ware-and-tear of the Laptops in the field.

While a mobile based solution was identified to bring in significant efficiencies in this process, the concerns around which Platform/Device is best, cost implications around developing Native Apps for each platform etc. was holding up the progress.

HTML5 Brings the Answers

With the growth of HTML5 and JavaScript technology, supporting multiple devices became a possibility. The vision was to create a solution that is device agnostic and available on leading Smartphone and Tablet devices.  We worked with the client to Design and Architect the Mobile Web Solution that transforms the way the IT Services Provider works. The App had to be compellingly user friendly; so we nailed down the UI/UX right from the start. App architecture, had to ensure great performance, stability and security.

Some of the features of the App –

• Service call management – viewing, updating and being alerted for Service Requests through Application Workflows.

• Scan barcodes – the Web App integrates with native barcode readers

• Part request that integrates with a backend inventory control system

• Track shipped parts using Fed-Ex tracking codes via Web Service calls

• Offline capabilities through the Mobile Browser’s local database

• View Client locations on Maps and get directions

Benefits expected through the HTML5 Mobile App Strategy -

• Bring in greater efficiencies across the Company’s growing field-force operation
• To enhance collaboration of Field Technicians
• Minimize errors and reduce hassle of manual data entry
• Speedy response times and thereby improve customer satisfaction
• Reduce hardware and infrastructure costs