Today's Two Tips for Tablet use In the field... part 1 of many

There are several factors to balance when designing an inspection or assessment for use on a mobile device, and what also has to be considered are the inspectors themselves and the ergonomics of the device in use.

If you haven't used tablets or cellphones for data entry then you are forgiven for missing the two deadly sins; thinking that you can type free text easily on them, and that one size suits all.

Using pick-lists makes data entry much faster

When putting together the assessment on the device try and set up as much data capture into categorized lists (drop downs) or make use of pick lists for common phrases, observations or recommendations. 

Allow a single field then for additional text to supplement the selected text and options (e.g. Other). 

The more you reduce the typing that has to be done, the more success you will have in getting people to use the device.

Coupled with easing the data entry is the size of the device - if you go for a 10 inch sized device, holding it can become problematic - they are unwieldy. 

However this size allows for a very large font for clarity of text and ease of typing for people with large fingers (yes, a very real consideration). 

The smaller format (say 7inch or cellphone) are easier to hold, but typing can be very difficult unless you are used to the device, or have smaller fingers.

So the two tips for today are firstly to consider the size of the device for the users and the environment they will be using the devices in, and secondly reduce the amount of typing that has to be done through use of drop downs and multi-select text builders.