Please note that the ThoughtForms app integrates with Salesforce.com and that, in order to use this application, you will require an instance of that service, along with certain server-side components that we can provide and configure at additional cost.
ThoughtForms provides remote, disconnected access to HTML-based forms that integrate with your companys Salesforce.com CRM system. It is ideal for activities such as auditing, testing, inspection and data collection, where partially pre-populated forms are completed remotely (for example, at a client facility or in the street).
An app installed in Salesforce.com allows you to create and maintain a library of form templates. These are built using standard HTML and JavaScript and can support a number of useful features:
- Data outputs
- Text inputs (both single and multi-line)
- Drop-down selections (single and multi-pick)
- Checkboxes
- Radio buttons
- Date fields
- Signature fields
- Validation
- Etc., etc.
Programmed or workflow-based functionality in Salesforce.com can be used to pre-populate instances of these templates. This means that users can be assigned a to-do list of forms, each of which can detail the associated job/activity/requirements.
The iPad app, which has been built using Salesforce.coms Mobile SDK, authenticates the user and synchronises with the host CRM system:
- (Optionally) a just-in-time form generator runs on Salesforce.com
- Any new forms are downloaded to the iPad
- Any completed forms are uploaded to Salesforce.com and removed from the iPad
- Once uploaded, forms can trigger programmed or workflow-based functionality to process and/or distribute their contents
In-between synchronisations, the users forms remain on the iPad and can be viewed and edited as required. This means that the work can be carried out in locations where no Internet connection is available.