One of the newest tools out there when it comes to printing both in the field and sending to the office to be printed are cloud printing applications. There are many different applications, available for many different devices, which can be purchased for many different prices – it all depends on what you need.
Before we get started on all of the viable options, I just wanted to be clear for those of you using an irrigation software or a snow removal software. If you are looking to print from the software (or really any program on your phone), I always suggest you check with your field service software provider to see which devices and printers will work with their systems. Each software is different and will work differently on individual phones, with individual applications. It’s always best to ask before you buy!
Printing Applications:
While we at HindSite do not personally recommend printing in the field (for various reasons such as not being able to review the invoice before it is handed to the customer), we understand it is a necessity/preference for some field service businesses and cannot be avoided.
If you are printing in the field, there are plenty of great applications for a number of devices that can work for your field service business, such as:
· PrinterShare™ Mobile Print – This application is strictly Android based, meaning you will need an Android device to download and run it. The application allows you to print to a multitude of printers as long as the printer the device is communicating to is Wi-Fi enabled or is a Bluetooth connected printer. This application is free, but you will most likely need to buy the PrinterShare™ Premium Key for unlimited printing. The PrinterShare™ Premium Key is a one time fee of $12.95.
· PrinterCentral Pro – This application is an iOS application, meaning it is only compatible with iPhones, iPod Touches, and iPads. It is ranked 5 out of 5 stars in the App Store by users and is available for $4.99
Printing Add-Ons:
· Google Cloud Print – This is a great tool if you do not need to print directly in the field. The Google Cloud Print connects your printers to the web, allowing you, or anyone you wish to print to the printer in your office or home. You will need a printer that is connected to the internet, and Google suggests you buy a cloud enabled printer, but really any printer will do. As long as it is connected to your computer which has internet access or is a cloud printer, all of your techs, office staff, and field managers can print to the same printer. All you need for this is a Google account, which is free. Depending on what exactly you need printed, you may need to purchase an application that will transfer and print the file, document, picture, etc.
Check out Google Cloud Print, as well as the Apps that work with Google Cloud Print (and other printers) for a complete list of printing options.
It can be difficult to print in the field or get invoices to the office for review and back out to the customer in a timely manner. These printer applications and add-ons are great options to get documents printed quickly while still having the option to review before being sent out. Just remember to do your research on the devices you are using in the field, the printer you are sending documents to, and what kind of documents you are sending to the printer so you find the right match for your field service business!