The introduction and initial demonstrations of the latest version of the Dossier Systems maintenance management software were introduced at the company’s annual Dossier Summit at the Grand Marquis in downtown Atlanta, April 21-24.
The summit provided current product users the opportunity to see the latest software features first-hand, and suggest input on additional updates.
This year’s Dossier Summit saw a 12 percent increase in attendance year over year, according to Bob Hausler, Vice President, Marketing and Technology, Dossier Systems. With the highest ever attendance in the summit’s 30-year history, 175 attendees were on-hand to learn about updates to the current Dossier version 6.7 software, and have an initial look at the company’s next generation Dossier 7 software release.
As the industry moves toward cloud-based software programs, Hausler shared insights on current and new user adoption rates. About two-thirds of current Dossier users are on direct install software, compared to one-third opting to have Dossier host their software through the software as a service (SaaS) Dossier On-Demand option.
These numbers are reversed for new users to Dossier Systems – about 67 percent of new users use Dossier On-Demand, while 33 percent of new users opt for direct install software. Hausler says he expects the trend of SaaS usage to continue, with the ability to provide more streamlined support, adjust resources more readily, and the higher bandwidth requirements of future product releases such as Dossier 7.
New features and functionality with Dossier 7
The Dossier 7 platform will see a major update to the user interface and user experience, according to Hausler. “[Dossier 7] is being built from the ground up to be a mobile-friendly product,” he said.
The platform is designed to work seamlessly across multiple devices. Users can continue to access the program through their desktop computers, but also through a mobile application on tablets or smartphones. Tablet users can choose their preference for accessing the program through a web browser, or through the mobile app.
Dossier currently supports a mobile application called Mobile Lite. The launch of Dossier 7 will allow users access to more functionality on the platform. For example, users will now be able to create work orders on the Dossier 7 platform.
With regards to user experience, Hausler said the development team aimed to provide a similar layout and intuitive features to other mobile apps and websites already familiar to many users, such as Amazon.com and Microsoft products. “It’s the same information, we’re just presenting it in a way that requires you to do less clicking,” said Hausler.
Other updated features expected on the Dossier 7 platform include:
Templates – the ability to simplify and customize different profile types within the Dossier system, for assets, parts, personnel, etc.
Improved database and tools – Administrators will have more control and flexibility with the database and can provide more granular security and validation of user groups on the platform.
List cards – Essentially, these are saved display screens that users can search for, customize, save, recall and export on the system. They allow for easy display search-and-select.
Other enhancements – Improved search functionality will allow for searching any type of keywords throughout the entire system; customized workspaces for specific departments and/or users; an expanded PM system, tasks with integrated interactive checklists, ability to build master part and master vendor lists, ability to set up parameters for workflow approval with delegation, and work order workflow management showing the status of multiple work orders on one page.
Dossier Systems expects to role out the first iteration of Dossier 7 to existing users in late 2019.
Latest Dossier 6.7 updates
Hausler showed off the latest updates to the company’s current maintenance software, Dossier 6.7, including:
Icon refresh – Announced at last year’s DUG Summit, the updated icons will have newer designs and styles. “You’ll get used to the visuals that will be used in Dossier 7,” Hausler said to exist users attending the conference.
Interactive checklists – Also introduced at last year’s Dossier Summit, interactive checklists are available to custom build and update standard repairs and PMs. Users can now require completion of the checklists on the system. The lists can be built with three different types of steps: a checkbox; a predefined list of options to select requiring a specific answer; or a freeform text field to add notes or comments. Checklists can be printed as well.
Enhanced fuel/meter import – Users can automatically import fuel usage and meter readings as any of the following: fuel and meter; fuel only; or meter only.
Define and set purchasing limits for user groups – Users can set hard purchasing limits, or set up notifications when an individual spends more than the allotted amount.
Some of these design updates, in particular, the icon refresh, are a precursor to the upcoming launch of Dossier 7 to prepare users for the upcoming software launch.
