Who is this article for?

Mobile Users and Admins supporting company mobile updates.

An active Mobile application is required.

Mobile devices allow users to access applications anytime and anywhere, which is especially valuable for fieldwork, remote teams, or on-the-go tasks. This increases productivity and responsiveness. They support real-time data input (e.g., observations, forms, photos, signatures), which helps reduce delays and errors associated with manual or delayed entry.

Mobile devices offer built-in tools like cameras, GPS, voice recognition, and biometric authentication. These can be integrated into the app to enrich functionality—for example:

• Capturing images for inspections
• Geotagging reports
• Using voice-to-text for faster input

When data is collected through a mobile application, that information is directed to a central location for effective reporting and workflow management. 

IP access restrictions

Mobile applications cannot function independently from the desktop environment. The  Ideagen EHSQ Enterprise mobile app supports all three major operating systems (iOS, Android, and Windows 10.) For more information visit Managing Mobile connections and Recommended client configuration.

Mobile Observation vs. Mobile Forms

It is advisable to use Mobile Observations in situations where the required information can be captured effectively through a checklist-based form that facilitates swift and straightforward data entry. This approach is particularly suitable when the primary objective is to gather information quickly without the need for assigning tasks. Additionally, Mobile Observations are ideal when the data collection is intended solely to support the Initiate workflow step, meaning that the work itself has not yet been allocated to any personnel.

On the other hand, Mobile Forms should be utilized when there is a need to assign tasks directly on the mobile device. This method is also preferred when the data capture process involves more complex requirements. For instance, Mobile Forms are beneficial when certain fields must be made mandatory based on specific conditions within the form, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately collected. Furthermore, Mobile Forms allow for the inclusion of documents embedded within the form or the associated work package, enhancing the comprehensiveness and context of the captured data.

Overall, the recommended best practice is to primarily use Mobile Forms due to their versatility and ability to handle more complex data capture scenarios, as well as task assignments, thereby supporting a more streamlined and efficient workflow.

Attachments

The mobile app supports the attachment of images, documents, and videos in two ways:

• Files attached to mobile form assignments will be downloaded and cached (the same as other attachments)
• Users can connect attachments to observations (including observation ratings) and mobile forms:
  • Captured directly from the device's camera
  • Uploaded from the device's photo or file library

The app limits captured video files to 10MB. If a file captured directly from the camera is larger than 10MB, the user has the choice of deleting the file or storing the file in the device photo library for later use.

• Video is supported on iOS and Android only. (Video will be supported by the Windows native app.)
• Video format matters. Depending on device configuration, videos captured on one device may not be viewable on a different device. One specific example is attempting to open .MOV files from iOS on an Android device.
• The app is configured to capture low-resolution video (< 200KB/sec) to keep the files small and manageable.

Syncing Data

Synchronizing data refers to the process of ensuring that information stored offline or in multiple locations such as devices, apps, or servers, is consistent and up to date.

• Manual sync via the menu
• Auto-sync enabled when connected to Wi-Fi
• Pending data can be seen via the History->Pending Tab from the left-hand navigation menu

Offline Mode is a core feature that allows users to complete their work without an internet connection, which is especially useful in field operations, remote areas, or environments with unreliable connectivity. Offline Mode allows users to:

• Access assigned tasks, forms, and data that were previously synced to their device.
• Complete and save work (e.g., filling out forms, attaching photos)
• Store all inputs locally until a connection is available to sync back to the server

Connection Notifications

Local notifications serve to inform a user that there is pending offline activity awaiting synchronization with the server. These notifications are displayed exclusively when the device is offline and there is outstanding activity, such as observations, mobile forms, and work packages.

The notifications appear eight hours after the initial queued event and recur every eight hours thereafter. It is automatically dismissed once the synchronization process is complete. Please note that push (remote) notifications are not supported.

Barcode support

All barcode formats are supported on all mobile devises, for example the Google specific format. 

Mobile app supports the following: 

For more information

• Getting started with the mobile application
• Managing Mobile Connections
• Setting up the mobile application
• Understanding the Mobile application release process
• Mobile Tips and Tricks