Road construction charges highlight need for efficiency, say TAAP

The recent levy imposed on utility and construction contractors for digging up London’s public highways – £2,500 per day at peak times – has prompted mobile application specialist TAAP to highlight the importance of real-time job management to these companies.

Currently, many companies have to collect and deliver job sheets for every project, then wait for the details to be rekeyed into a computer system and only then close the job down. Users of TAAP’s mobile systems can view and complete real-time data as well as recording pictures as part of the electronic form. In addition, documents such as utilities maps and photographs can be sent to the mobile device along with the task, as well as recording data necessary for the Traffic Management Act regulations such as photos and GPS positions.

This means that time and associated costs are reduced, because the system can act more efficiently by transferring data from the field to the back-office immediately.

Jobs can also be sent out to each mobile device so that technicians and engineers know exactly which jobs they should undertake.

Because TAAP’s systems are designed to work on ruggedised mobile devices as well as consumer-style smartphones, there is no risk of users being in too harsh an environment to operate. Ruggedised devices are designed to withstand being dropped, exposed to moisture and the effects of dust and dirt.

Importantly, when workers are in areas of reduced connectivity they can still complete their tasks and the data can be saved securely on the device. Once the internet connection returns, the data can be uploaded.

All data is available within customer-specific secure web portals provided by TAAP, so managers can see details of all the jobs; print reports and email documents to customers. This ensures that accurate records are accessible and that companies do not need to purchase expensive storage solutions.

Systems consultant Matt Pluck commented “In the utility and construction sector, TAAP provides a variety of simple systems suitable for all types of jobs which contractors undertake and which can include working outside in all types of weathers. We are committed to assisting our customers to find the right devices for their workforce, so that they can take advantage of a fully integrated system.”

TAAP is a leading provider of software solutions which allow organisations to mobilise their operations using hand held computers.

Website: www.ontaap.com