Typically, each mechanic on shift is
provided with a SPWS (ShirtPocket WorkStation). Because we track
every minute of a mechanic’s time it isn’t possible to “share”
workstations on the same shift. SPWS’s are stored on a charging
cradle overnight where their batteries can be recharged. The
synchronization process takes place on the cradle and exchanges
information between the Work Station and ExtraFleet. Transactions
are brought in from the SPWS and ExtraFleet updates the information
stored in the handheld including; all the open jobs available in the
system, the most recent meter readings for each unit, and the entire
on shelf parts inventory listing. It is very important to have this
information at the end user’s disposal to avoid data entry errors
and to speed response time by eliminating data entry.
Start-up: Immediately
after clocking in for the day, the technician logs on to his device
where he is expected to either; choose an existing job, create a new
job, or clock on to a non-vehicle activity (overhead). The device
is programmed in a way that expects the user to interact throughout
the day.
New Job: If the technician
decides to create a new job, the unit ID’s barcode (ExtraFleet will
produce equipment ID Bar codes) is scanned or keypad entered and if
applicable, the user is prompted to enter a meter reading. The
entries are checked against the information in the workstation to
ensure their validity. The next step is to add a job from the job
file contained on the handheld. The Job Source is also added
(Vehicle Condition Report, PM, Road Call, etc.). Once the job has
been added, the clock begins and the technician’s time is being
charged against the job.
Parts Usage: If parts are
used during the job they are scanned with the unit’s built in bar
code scanner or added manually through the use of the on screen
keyboard. The entries are verified against the unit’s parts
inventory list. The technician can stop working on the job at any
time. He will be prompted to specify whether or not the job has
been completed and he must supply a new place to charge his time;
another job, paid, or unpaid break, lunch, etc., or he may end his
work for the day. The goal is to account for all of the
technician’s time throughout the day.
Completion of Open Work Orders:
The device may also be used to work on a job that has already
been created in the system. When the technician logs in he will
have access to every job that has been assigned to him, plus every
job that resides in the system that is unassigned. Choosing a job
that has already been created will start the clock on that job and
the job completion procedure is then followed.
Creating Work Orders/Service Writer:
A third way to use the device is to create work orders. This
means that the SPWS can be placed into the hands of a person
performing the role of service writer who can create work orders for
equipment that is reported to be in need of repair. This is a
matter of creating new jobs for vehicles and then periodically
downloading this information to ExtraFleet for distribution to the
other users.
Parts Inventory Management:
The ShirtPocket WorkStation has been programmed to capture on
shelf inventory. Accomplishing this task involves scanning a parts
bin label, recording the number of items in each bin, then
interfacing the device with ExtraFleet to update the inventory files
with the actual on-hand quantities. Frequently surveying and
reconciling parts inventory keeps users on top of asset
accountability. In addition to correcting the on-hand quantities a
report is produced that shows the “discrepancies” that were
corrected. The ExtraFleet software includes the ability to create
parts bin labels to support the on shelf inventory counting
process. One label is produced for each part number in the
inventory and then affixed to the bin where that part resides. This
makes it very easy to scan the bin label and then enter the quantity
of that part found on the shelf. ExtraFleet also prints parts tags
for individual parts and provides UPC cross references for
pre-labeled parts.
Remote Fuel/Meter Capture: The ShirtPocket WorkStation is also capable of recording fuel
transactions in the field where a fuel truck is used to service the
equipment. The equipment ID is captured along with the meter
information, fuel, oil,
coolant, and other fluids added, even the usage of miscellaneous
parts. Find something more complicated when you're in the field?
Just switch over to the work order module and perform a complete work
order or initiate a new work order to be performed later.
The data once transferred to
ExtraFleet becomes fuel transactions that update the equipment
meters for PM scheduling purposes and charge fuel and fluid usage to
the equipment.
Cost: There are two types of
WorkStations available, the batch and the wireless version.
Batch devices, including hardware and software are US $1895 ea.,
the wireless devices which require a user installed wireless network
(802.11x) for both hardware and software (includes middleware) are
US $2295 ea.
