Hindsite is better than foresight by a damn sight
I've always wanted to use that as a title, but could never quite figure out how --- until I met Dave Crary and he showed me his technology solution that's sold by, you guessed it, HINDSITE SOFTWARE!
I was attracted to David's booth at the New Jersey trade show because he touts Pocket PCs and, as many of you know, I'm a current Palm user with a big desire to leave the "dark side" and head back to Microsoft land.
Hidsite Software is a Pocket PC based solution designed specifically for the trades and service 
industries. If you have clients who put workers in the field providing services, with or without parts, you'll really want to know about the solution.
The system requires each technician carry a PDA which, according to Hindsite, makes them "feel and act in a more professional manner." The PDA downloads work orders either via computer sync or via cellular or EDVO signal in the case of telephone based devices. Both methods can save the technicians from driving to the shop every morning. Instead they simply check their device for their next assignment. Upon completion of a job the technician simply punches in the information and it's ready for transmission to the office. In theory a tech using a phone based device could complete a job, beam up the information, and the invoice could be in the mail before he got to next work site!
The Hindsite system integrates with QuickBooks and Master Builder and is available both as an outright purchase and in a subscription mode. Hindsite claims over 100 companies are currently utilizing it's solution. It's priced at $100 per month for a single PDA (the office side module is free). PDA's 2 through 10 are $50 per month, and 11 and over are $40.
Initially the pricing may appear strong, but considering its potential financial impact (you don't have to capture very many plumber's minutes to save $100!) and the fact that it includes support and upgrades, many clients may jump at the chance --- but only if you tell them about it!!
gll
