Datastream Announces Datastream 7i Mobile; Next-Generation Solution Extends the Power of Datastream 7i to Mobile Workers
Datastream 7i Mobile Delivers Unprecedented Handheld Functionality and Runs on Any Pocket PC Device; Easily Configures to Support Business Processes
Chicago, ILL. – February 23, 2004 (From booth #219 at National Manufacturing Week) –Datastream Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: DSTM) today announced the immediate availability of the next-generation Datastream 7i Mobile advanced module. Datastream 7i Mobile extends the functionality of the Datastream 7i Asset Performance Management solution to mobile workers in an easy-to-deploy, easy-to-use and easy-to-configure handheld application.
Datastream 7i Mobile is based on the Pocket PC operating system. This gives customers the freedom to select the hardware vendor of their choice, while benefiting from rich mobile functionality and an interface that is complementary to the Datastream 7i desktop interface. This familiar interface reduces training requirements while delivering greater functionality than is possible in traditional proprietary handheld applications.
“Datastream 7i Mobile is truly an extension of the Datastream 7i Asset Performance Management solution, providing our workers with a tremendous amount of handheld functionality through an intuitive, familiar interface,” said Brooke McCain, project manager for Atlanta Gas Light Company (AGLC). AGLC, Virginia Natural Gas and Chattanooga Gas Company are subsidiaries of Atlanta-based AGL Resources. “Datastream 7i Mobile enables us to significantly improve the productivity of our mobile workers by replacing paper-based processes with automated ones. For example, our workers can now manage work orders and perform inspections and calibrations right in their handheld computers. This ensures proper procedures and data quality while eliminating the need to re-enter information into Datastream 7i.”
Datastream 7i Mobile provides robust functionality in several key areas, including:
- Work Order Management — Workers can download work orders directly from the Datastream 7i database and then assign or re-assign them to other individuals. This functionality also provides users with their own personalized “to-do” lists, with Datastream 7i Mobile helping to disperse the work automatically. Users can also distribute and record tasks at the activity level in addition to the work-order header level, which provides management with valuable information on how workers are spending their time.
- Meter Readings and Replacement — This feature enables workers to enter meter values for any assigned piece of equipment. Datastream 7i Mobile assures consistency of data by providing the appropriate unit of measure and meter name for each reading. Datastream 7i Mobile also tracks the replacement of meters, which is critical to meeting regulatory compliance requirements.
- Physical Inventory Updates — Customers can track and manage their physical inventory more effectively by keeping inventory information up-to-date and readily available.
- Inspections — Datastream 7i Mobile facilitates enforcement of proper inspection procedures by generating a standard list of inspection points. This ensures that users cover each point during their inspections and enter any violations into the system, resulting in a more efficient and thorough inspection process.
- Record-Locking and 21 CFR 11 Support — Record-locking and electronic signature capture capabilities radically simplify compliance with the FDA’s electronic signature regulations, 21 CFR 11, and other government regulations by automatically capturing auditable documentation of procedures.
- Calibrations — Datastream 7i Mobile provides a simple way for customers to document the accuracy of gauges, meters and other measuring devices, which is a critical capability in regulatory compliance.
- Prompt Creation and Configuration — Data collection is simplified by enabling customers to create and configure prompts to fit their business process needs. This saves on training requirements and support costs. It also eases the deployment process by enabling users to combine automated data collection techniques with day-to-day Datastream 7i functions.
With advanced bi-directional synchronization, Datastream 7i Mobile ensures that the data sets on Datastream 7i Mobile and Datastream 7i are in sync and up to date. The module is also completely standards-based and integrates with the Web services tier of the Datastream 7i application, so no additional third party “gateway” software is required. Additionally, screen and synchronization configuration capabilities enable customers to customize Datastream 7i Mobile so it matches their workers’ requirements and specific work processes.
“Datastream 7i Mobile extends the capabilities of Datastream 7i to mobile workers in virtually any work environment — connected or disconnected,” said Datastream President and CEO Larry Blackwell. “This means that customers don’t have to ‘re-invent the wheel’ with their mobile applications when it comes to business rules and security, for example. The same rules and security protocols in place with Datastream 7i are automatically in place with Datastream 7i Mobile, thus creating a seamless extension of the application to mobile workers.”
About Datastream Systems, Inc.
Datastream Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: DSTM) provides Asset Performance Management software and services to enterprises worldwide, including more than 65 percent of the Fortune 500. Datastream’s solutions combine world-class asset management functionality with advanced analytics to deliver a powerful platform for optimizing enterprise asset performance.
By using Datastream’s solutions, customers can maintain and manage capital assets – such as manufacturing equipment, vehicle fleets and buildings – and create analyses and forecasts so they can take action to improve future performance. Datastream’s flagship product, Datastream 7iTM, delivers a complete Asset Performance Management infrastructure by combining an Internet, web services architecture with broad enterprise asset management functionality, integrated procurement, advanced analytics and multi-site capability.
Datastream was founded in 1986 and has customers in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.datastream.net.