Origin creates mobile workforce management, onsite HSEQ auditing and works management systems for some of the UK's leading companies including Severn Trent, Morrison Utilities, and Inchcape.

Although much of the core functionality is common, each Origin system is bespoke, designed to meet a client's exact requirements. First, existing paper-based processes are mapped, refined and redundancy removed. Then, using Windows Mobile technology, Origin builds handheld PDA-based question and answer templates to collect the required data. Data can include photographs, GPS co-ordinates, barcodes, signatures, and free text. Simple or complex scoring or grading structures can be incorporated. The Fastflow white paper in the Resources section provides a detailed account of how an Origin system is implemented and the benefits it can bring.

Data, once collected, is automatically transmitted either directly into a client's back office ERP system or similar, or to an external password-protected secure website hosted by Origin. The advantage of the latter is that data can be accessed 24/7 and shared by all those with the necessary authorisation.

You can find out much more about Origin, its clients, and the range of applications it has developed at www.originservices.co.uk.