On Sunday 16th August we release our latest update (v.1.11.2) which includes various usability improvements to the recently released utility update. These subtle additions are based upon feedback from users – special thanks to everyone that took the time to feedback.
In the news release below we explore the additional new features.
Prefer to watch a short demo video instead? Visit our YouTube Release Vlog Here and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel, as we have a host of new video content arriving soon with screen-recorded hints, tips and best practice guidance.
Usage Improvement Summary
The focus of this update is to allow for quicker utility setup and completion:
- When setting-up a property there’s now a new modal for adding utilities with ‘Add Now’, ‘Add Later’ and ‘Not Required’ options. This approach is the same as the steps taken when creating a tenancy, so offers a more consistent user journey.
- The ‘+ Add New Meter’ option now has ‘Access Notes’ set to show by default and the ‘Supplier’ and ‘Location’ fields are also non-mandatory, meaning users can choose whether to populate them or not.
- The meter ‘Reading’ fields are also non-mandatory, meaning users are not forced to add them immediately, making it more convenient to navigate in and out of this screen. For instance, take a snap of the meter reading in offline mode > hit ‘Done’ > Sync-up later when the report is completed > Use the image recognition tools to populate the reading when proofing the report.
- There is now an ‘N/A’ button that is easily accessible from the overview section for all meter types, meaning users can take less steps to set the relevant statuses from one screen.
- ‘Interim Visits’ now have meter readings set to ‘N/A’ by default, meaning users don’t have to manually set them in this way.
Important Notes
As outlined in our short YouTube guide video, it’s also important to note the following points:
- Majority of the new utility fields and photo options are non-mandatory, meaning that users can record comprehensive, or basic information. Of course, this also means you can navigate in and out of the screens and add the information when it’s convenient to do so.
- Storing the utility information at property level is designed to save time in the long-run. It avoids the repeat entry of details that won’t change from tenancy to tenancy, such as the serial number, location and access notes.
- Taking meter photos for usage with image recognition produces extremely reliable results, but it’s important to take a close-up photo of reading numbers. As mentioned above, general photos about location and serial numbers can be taken at property level – they shouldn’t need repeat entry with each new tenancy.
Our browser version updates have been pushed-live already – so there’s no action required there (happens automatically). An update is required to install the latest features on your iOS or Android devices though, which can be accessed here for convenience: iOS (Apple) Appstore found here and; Android Google Playstore found here.
Downtime (Sunday 23rd August @ Midnight)
We have some server updates underway next week, so please allow for a few hours downtime from 12am to 3am in the early hours of Saturday into Sunday 23rd August.
Coming Soon…
Our commitment to continuous improvement will see the release of a flurry of updates in the next few months. We also have exciting news to announce – watch this space : )