Tablets making house calls

Tablet computers are affecting all corners of the enterprise sector. This includes field service industries, where the devices are proving to be valuable tools for workers who are constantly on the go and rarely set foot in the office.

Technology is not a concept typically associated with plumbers, electricians and other field service jobs. But as mobile devices like smartphones and tablets become more prevalent in other industries, they are also making headway into these blue-collar markets.

Any company with a large mobile workforce can benefit from using tablet computers. Not only can the technology enable workers to connect to the company’s network remotely, robust applications also allow field agents to process payments while on the road and help them stay organized on especially busy days.

Communication functions, such as voice over internet protocol and video chat, can also aid mobile employees. Rather than come into the office for meetings, workers can simply attend them virtually using their tablets or smartphones -- saving both time and money for travel.

Mobile devices and cloud computing are bringing a new technological element to nearly every industry. As these technologies continue to advance, their applications in the field service market, as well as other industries, will expand as well.