Paper based forms are the traditional method of form filling and information collection. They suffer from efficiency problems because the information needs reentering when the user is back at the computer. Webpages and apps helped to make the process more efficient, but it was always a requisite to have an Internet connection.
We have taken that a step further
Introducing the offline forms app…
By now, you may be wondering what an offline app is and how it could possibly be of use? The clue lies in the name, it’s a data collection utility (or form) and it works offline!
Picking up where the webpage left off, the offline app allows data collection in whatever format is required. There is no limit to the amount of fields a form can have, the fields can be shaped to the required type of data expected.
If your office has a role that is required to leave the office and collect data or take a survey, here is how the offline app can help to facilitate that:
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Rich Presentation – the app is designed specifically for your application. If you need image fields and number fields, they can be provided and checked for. Pictures can be taken and added to the forms. Placeholders can be inserted, so an image specifically aligns with a section of the form.
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Realtime Error Checking – the app can ensure the fields in the form have the type of data you want to see. If a number is expected, the app can ensure a number is entered. If your form requires an email address, the app can check that a valid email address format has been used. Likewise, if a specific field is required, the app can prompt the user to fill the field before continuing.
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Offline – the app is designed for you to use it offline, so it allows you to continue working without an Internet connection. Any data you enter into the form gets stored on your device until you are back in range of the Internet. Then it all gets synced with your database.
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Syncing Data – Once the form is filled in, the data is stored. It will automatically be sent to your email or synced with your online portal, this can be particularly beneficial for out in the field work. An example is the estate agent at a prospect’s house, will not always be able to connect to the internet. This way, you are able to collect any data without the worry of losing it or having to reenter the same information once back in the office.
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Traveling – There are many scenarios where people may need to enter data whilst traveling between jobs, 3G / 4G is not always an option. With offline forms no effort is wasted and forms can be filled in, secure in the knowledge that the data will be synced when they are next in the vicinity of a hotspot.
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Presentation – When in front of a new customer, you have a single opportunity to impress them. The first look and feel of your business is often what encourages sales, either with new customers or maintaining existing ones. This technology will enhance their experience and allow them to see first hand how you are storing their information and how you have set yourself apart from the competition.
The offline app is a flexible tool that can make your business more efficient. Enabling you to gather more information at a faster rate, without having to worry about an Internet connection or duplicating effort.
For more information on how we can design the app specifically for your data collection please don’t hesitate to call us on 01454 414 414 or emailing us at enquiries@desktopenterprises.co.uk
