Gearworks updates its mobile field service management software

Minneapolis, MN, April 14, 2005 -- (MobileVillage) -- Gearworks today released the latest version -- 4.5 -- of etrace, its wireless and Web-based software for measuring and managing field operations.

Gearworks' etrace is designed for GPS and Java-enabled mobile phones. Version 4.5 incorporates new mobile data collection and electronic timecard editing functionality that helps field service organizations eliminate paperwork, speed the flow of vital field data and increase productivity among both mobile and office-based workers.

etrace 4.5 is available in three editions -- etrace:worksight, etrace:workflow and etrace:worksmart. All editions in v. 4.5 include the following new PowerFields and Timecard Editing and Exporting features:

PowerFields: This new, real-time data collection feature allows organizations to replace existing paperwork by entering data right into electronic fields on their etrace-equipped mobile device. The data is then validated and transmitted in real-time back to etrace's Mission Control and can be passed to back-end applications using QuickConnect -- the company's mobile integration platform. PowerFields are offered in the following three formats:

Ad-Hoc PowerFields -- Field-based electronic forms that can be completed by mobile workers at their convenience throughout the day to document information not necessarily connected to a specific job or activity, such as expenses, time-off requests, etc. Ad-Hoc PowerFields are available in all three etrace editions.

Timecard PowerFields -- Field-based electronic forms that can link timekeeping and project specific information directly into an organization's timecard system using the etrace mobile Timecard feature. For example, a mobile worker can use Timecard PowerFields to track the number of hours worked on a specific project, or to track the odometer reading at the start and end of a shift. The date, time and location of each transaction is recorded. Timecard PowerFields are available in all three etrace editions.

Job Action PowerFields -- Field-based electronic forms that can be embedded within the etrace job management system to enable the real-time capture of vital job data including service documentation, part usage, additional services rendered, customer complaints, etc. Job Action PowerFields are available in Gearworks' etrace:workflow and etrace:worksmart editions.

Timecard Editing and Export: This feature allows administrators to edit timecard information before its exported to a third-party payroll application or processor. etrace 4.5's Timecard Editing and Export feature automatically calculates daily and weekly overtime and double-time hours, and presents the data within a user-friendly Microsoft Excel format for easy integration into existing payroll systems.

etrace Version 4.5 is available now for download on the Nextel data network. Gearworks did not mention availability for other networks; see the Gearworks web site for details.

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