Category: Products

Why Trinity is the Right Provider for Custom Software Development

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I. Introduction In today’s world, software tailored to your business needs is vital. Custom software development refers to the process of designing, creating, and maintaining software tailored to meet specific business needs. Custom software personalizes solutions by offering unique features and flexibility that align with an organization’s goals and workflows, unlike off-the-shelf options. Tailored software enhances workplace efficiency, provides a competitive advantage, and integrates seamlessly with existing systems. It allows businesses to innovate, adapt to market changes, and offer unique customer experiences. Custom solutions also scale with growth, ensuring long-term flexibility and reliability. To learn more about the differences between custom software development and off-the-shelf software, click here. Trinity has been developing tailored solutions for clients for over 25 years. We specialize in business process improvement, helping companies across the globe enhance efficiency, service, safety, and quality. At Trinity, we understand our clients’ business needs and optimize processes for growth. Our development team tailors solutions to meet our clients’ needs, enabling them to focus on their core operations. Additionally, we combine our expertise with industry specific solutions to develop a custom process that improves efficiency and output quality through process optimization. II. Trinity’s Approach to Custom Software Development Tailored Solutions for Every Business Trinity consistently delivers exceptional, customized solutions. Our strong history shows that we reliably deliver great solutions to help our clients reach their business goals. We create custom software using No-Code and Low-Code platforms, which allows us to offer innovative solutions for our clients’ immediate needs while also planning for their future growth. Recently, we had the opportunity to develop custom software for Walmart. They were using a system that didn’t have a mobile option, forcing technicians to carry laptops or wait until they got back to the office to update work orders. On top of that, reporting was cumbersome and confusing. Facilities Management faced limitations in configuring the system, which caused delays when changes were necessary. In addition, the system did not provide an avenue for inventory management. This was critical for the Facilities team to have one system that would provide the means to track their inventory life cycle. Trinity collaborated with Walmart’s Facility Maintenance Team to develop a custom team-based Work Order system with mobile capabilities. This custom application allows technicians to update work orders in the field, enhancing documentation and accountability. Technicians can quickly assign tasks using the designed Work Order queues for each team, which improves workload and project management. The mobile solution provides greater ease of use and more accurate reporting and reduced the system administrative functions from weeks to the same day. To read more about how Trinity developed custom software applications, click here. Comprehensive Development Process At Trinity, our goal is to drive growth, enhance flexibility, and boost efficiency. We work closely with our clients to understand their unique challenges. Gathering accurate requirements is important for our development team to ensure successful project outcomes. When we work on a custom software project, we listen carefully to understand our clients’ vision. This helps us create a clear plan that guides them toward their goals. Additionally, our clients get regular support from our Client Solutions team during development, testing, and after launch. Our clients get exactly what they envision with our custom software development services. Agile methodologies have become a game-changer for Trinity when helping clients seek flexibility and continuous improvement. By embracing Agile, Trinity is able to break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks, known as iterations or sprints. This allows our teams to adapt quickly to changes, whether from evolving client needs or market conditions. Agile fosters collaboration, encourages frequent feedback, and ensures transparency, helping the project stay aligned with our client’s business objectives. One of the key benefits of Agile is it enables the ability to respond to change effectively. Rather than sticking to a rigid plan, our teams can pivot when necessary, ensuring that the end product meets the current demands. This flexibility not only enhances the quality of the output but also increases client satisfaction. Our clients actively participate throughout the process, giving feedback after each iteration. This engagement results in a product that closely aligns with their vision and strengthens business relationships. Robust testing is essential to delivering reliable, bug-free software that meets user expectations. It helps identify and address issues early, ensuring a smooth, error-free experience. Thorough testing also enhances software security, performance, and functionality across different platforms, reducing the risk of costly post-launch fixes. At Trinity, we are deeply committed to rigorous quality assurance processes. Our teamperforms extensive testing at every stage of development. By focusing in quality assurance, we ensure that our custom software development is not only functional but also dependable, fostering long-term client trust and satisfaction. Post-Development Support At Trinity, we understand that delivering custom software is just the beginning. To ensure it remains up-to-date and fully functional, we offer ongoing support tailored to your needs. We also help with troubleshooting, monitor performance, and make improvements based on user feedback to ensure the software meets your business goals. With our proactive support, clients can concentrate on their main tasks while we take care of their software after it’s launched. As a custom software company, we do more than just provide software; we give our clients the tools and knowledge to use it effectively. We offer tailored training sessions for different skill levels, so your team can easily use all the features of the custom application. Along with training, we provide clear documentation, user guides, and ongoing tech support to help with any questions or issues. Our aim is to empower clients to use the software efficiently to meet their specific needs, improve user experience, and boost productivity for long-term success. III. Key Benefits of Partnering with Trinity Deep Industry Expertise At Trinity, we’ve had the opportunity to work with various industries like Telecom, Construction, Healthcare, and more. Our goal is to help these clients increase revenue by providing custom software that automates tasks, improves resource use, and speeds up […]

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Everything to Know About Customizing Quickbase Applications

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For modern businesses, the right software can simplify day-to-day operations. When functionality for monitoring workflows and productivity targets is lacking, leaders can’t make informed decisions. If you’re considering using Quickbase or using it already, you should know about Trinity’s custom business solutions.  A custom business solution is the best option for organizations that want practical applications for their business needs. Purpose-built software has become an essential part of modern enterprise ecosystems. Understanding the power of custom business software gives decision-makers an edge when dealing with employees, partners, and customers. Before diving into our process with Quickbase, we’ll discuss the power of custom business solutions. The Power of Custom Business Solutions Although off-the-shelf software can be easier to set up and deploy, it often leaves out important options the business needs. Companies can plan, deploy, and maintain solutions for their full operational cycle with custom business solutions. Custom solutions lead to lower costs, better management strategies, and practical application capabilities that streamline operations. The benefits of custom applications make it easy for companies to perform essential functions and maintain enterprise mobility.  Reduced Costs When businesses have to develop their own in-house software solutions, they can potentially see a lot of resource waste and unnecessary spending. This overhead can leave them unable to invest where it matters. With automated tools and applications, custom business solutions make planning and managing application deployments easy without the added development overhead. This approach means reduced barriers to entry for organizations that don’t have extra time, money, or expertise to build their own software solutions. Streamlined Management Traditional application ecosystems require ongoing oversight and management to ensure tools and processes work together effectively. Employees often make mistakes when working with multiple software stacks. Custom business software gives managers and decision-makers better control over their application ecosystems, providing a cohesive ecosystem that users can comfortably use.  With options for outside support from Trinity, businesses are assured that their operating systems are running smoothly. Precise Solutions Businesses often have to deal with what’s available when deploying pre-built applications. This compromise can lead to wasted time and energy dealing with unnecessary features or finding options to fill a specific need.  Applications made for a specific purpose can be designed and built to a significant effect. Custom-built software can lead to precise solutions that don’t limit users. With integrated tools that have been streamlined for a specific purpose, users can get right to completing their tasks.  Why Use Quickbase Applications? Off-the-shelf software is built and delivered for a wider audience, making it less practical for organizations with specific needs. Although third-party vendors have a firm grasp of creating generalized solutions, they often lack the specialization businesses need for the best results. In-house software is great for businesses wanting to maximize their investment return. However, many organizations lack the expertise to properly build and deploy their own solutions.  Quickbase allows organizations of all sizes to rapidly design, use, and refine their in-house apps. With its powerful no-code platform, users don’t have to be specially trained to take advantage of Quickbase and all it has to offer. Building new programming interfaces, sharing assets and ideas across departments, and maintaining project assets are simplified using Quickbase. This simplification allows users to achieve their goals and reap the benefits of rapid success. Building Better Quickbase Apps with Trinity Custom business solutions allow users to build specialized applications that fit their unique needs. However, designing, deploying, and improving in-house software can have added costs, complexity, and time constraints.  This nexus is where Trinity Integrated Solutions comes in. With Trinity’s development team, clients can access a Quickbase Elite Partner that knows everything about custom application development. Get Help Connecting Data Assets Managing multiple applications and getting them to share information is an essential part of app development. Businesses that rely on various applications for their operations need access to an application programming interface (API) to effectively leverage all of their data. With Trinity, Quickbase users can easily manage available data and assets by taking advantage of the JSON RESTful APIs for sharing components, modules, and libraries across the network. This sharing makes integrating applications a breeze and reinforces the client-side utility, creating added value for businesses and consumers. Access Real-Time Support In-house application solutions can mean time and energy keeping up with ongoing technological changes.  Updating hardware and software can become expensive, requiring dedicated staff and tools to maintain the vital ecosystem. Businesses can be easily left behind if they can’t keep up with the demands of their application infrastructure.  When using Trinity’s software, businesses have access to a continuously updated application ecosystem they don’t have to manage themselves. With a simplified user experience and access to tiered support services, clients can ensure they have accurate reporting and on-demand assistance. See Faster Turn-Around Times Although there are many benefits to an in-house custom business application solution, they can take time to build and improve over successive iterations. Businesses that are unable to effectively manage their application ecosystems can be left with wasted assets and increasing costs. Customizing Quickbase apps with Trinity takes less time to deploy than building applications from scratch. It also helps users improve their software over time. This strategy gives businesses a solid foundation for quickly building and deploying solutions to all of their unique needs. Get Enhanced Security Measures Custom business applications can quickly become complicated as problems arise and must be addressed within the code. This reworking can leave vulnerabilities and other security flaws malicious criminals can use to their ends. There can also be structural problems, leading to data loss, hardware crashes, and other severe issues. Trinity’s Quickbase solutions enable business managers and security professionals by offering built-in tools for maintaining application integrity. With the Quickbase platform, users get best-in-class security standards built into every application, improving compliance and providing peace of mind. Sometimes, businesses aren’t sure if they need off-the-shelf solutions or custom business software for their situation. Trinity focuses on custom Quickbase application solutions, providing detailed advice to […]

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Web-Based Calendars vs. Schedule Management Tools: Which is Better for Your Organization?

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Since the rise of digital utilities for productivity that’s occurred over the last 25 years or so, business owners and managers have been in a position of having to choose between web-based calendars and schedule management tools in managing teams. Not only that, but they’ve had to determine which utility serves them best. Some may remember the personal digital assistants of the late 1990s and early 2000s. These stand-alone devices became extremely popular at the time, primarily due to their productivity functions. These featured an electronic work calendar and other useful tools by proprietary names such as “Palm Pilot” and others. Third-party software could also be purchased, includingmpeting electronic calendars, games, and other applications (we didn’t call them “apps” back then). These days, of course, there is a multitude of web-based calendars and schedule management tools available to help you future-proof your business. Unfortunately, that multitude can translate into a foreboding jungle of functionality, making purchasing choices complex and anxiety-producing. Depending on the organization, its size, culture, and other dynamics, there may be a great deal of deliberation in the process of choosing a digital scheduling solution.  Web-Based Calendars vs Schedule Management Tools In determining whether a web-based calendar versus a schedule management tool would be better for your organization, we must first establish the distinction between the two. Next we’ll explain the difference between the two options. What is a Web-Based Calendar? A web-based calendar is a calendar that resides online, as opposed to software that’s purchased and loaded onto an individual’s computer or company server. The function, appearance, and bells and whistles it has are a function of the development company. Some widely known web-based calendars include Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar. Web-based calendars allow one or more users to enter, edit, and share data with team members online. They usually include drag and drop functions for creating reminders, recurring events, and different viewing options. Web-based calendars are widely used, even among large corporations that employ more comprehensive project management software. What are Schedule Management Tools? Schedule management tools are scheduling utilities that include calendar functions which are usually components within project management suites or communications platforms.  Based on the company offering the solution, a schedule management tool may not be available as a stand-alone utility. Some companies do provide stand-alone tools as a matter of convenience.  Depending upon the manufacturer and the built-in function, employees may use a scheduling tool in conjunction with other project management software applications and manual methods to perform schedule network analysis to generate updated project schedules.  So, What’s Right for Our Organization? While looking into the choices between online calendar solutions, the offerings are reasonably straightforward.  Researching schedule management tools can be a bit more complicated due to the crossover between project management suites and communications platforms. Also, you have to consider the capabilities of the different options. For example, a company engaged in manufacturing, or one that regularly handles large, unwieldy projects, might be better served with a schedule management tool or a project management suite with manufacturing as its core functionality. In manufacturing, for example, schedule mismanagement is often a direct cause of budget overruns. Sticking to a schedule is imperative for invoicing and closing out essential milestones. You can invoice such milestones with the proper software solution. In addition to invoicing snafus, when employees log time after a due date has passed, it decreases profit margins. Typically, organizations launch projects with a projected return on investment (ROI). But if additional hours are required to finish the job, project managers need to subtract the added labor costs from the ROI. This can have a cascading effect, interfering with other projects going on. Thus, when more comprehensive scheduling and project management functions are needed, the manager will need to research more comprehensive solutions. In these cases, a robust schedule management tool or project management suite will allow them to effectively effectively plan and maintain project schedules. Contact Trinity for Advanced Scheduling Tools In the end, it is up to the business owner or manager to be their advocate, as it were, and be prepared to explore the available options meticulously. TrinityCalendar remains the top solution for these needs due to its compatibility with Quickbase and full functionality. If you’d like to schedule a demo of our tools, contact us today.  […]

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Everything to Know About VoIP Solutions

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Solid communication is a key component in how a company functions. The limitations of traditional phone systems have led businesses to look elsewhere for solutions that provide connectivity on a broader scale, a boost in efficiency, and even cost savings in the long run. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems have become one fix to meet the needs of companies that want better for their communication needs. We dive into the basics of VoIP, proven benefits to the networks over traditional phone systems, and how TrinityVoIP can be advantageous at your company. What Is VoIP? VoIP is a communications technology that replaces a traditional phone system at a company. How do VoIP calls work? Instead of traditional phone networks, VoIP calls use the internet to transmit calls and audio files as digital data. That means you don’t need phone lines or a phone company to replace landlines with VoIP.  Your company needs a high-speed internet connection and phones or devices configured to work with VoIP through a VoIP service provider. That doesn’t have to mean traditional desk phones, either. A smartphone or desktop computer can work, too. VoIP is then ideal for remote workforces and flexible office environments looking for ways to improve connectivity on a broader scale.  Industries That Benefit from VoIP Organizations large and small have made the switch to VoIP systems. The technology is particularly beneficial, even profitable, for companies in several unique industries.  Customer Service Centers A VoIP solution can improve efficiency and allow employees to better manage customer support with features embedded in the service. That can mean routing a customer to someone who will answer an urgent question immediately or providing recorded information in cases where a physical customer service agent isn’t necessary. VoIP allows for multi-tasking and mobility from company employees, giving customers more access to the support they need. Businesses With Remote Workforces E-commerce companies, marketing agencies, even financial institutions have all taken a hard look at flexible work standards. As VoIP isn’t connected to one hardwired telephone, work can happen anywhere, anytime. Do business from home if the situation calls for it or from the office. Businesses with remote workforces have embraced ways to make work more accessible, more efficient and more effective at their companies. Small Businesses and Startups The promise of cost savings makes VoIP that much more appealing to companies working with thin margins or just trying to get off the ground. The added flexibility with working outside of office space allows for customer follow-up and efficiency when working with clients. Communication on a smaller scale is just as important, if not more so than at a large, global corporation. Each customer interaction matters. Global Enterprises  International calling is generally much less expensive when using a VoIP service over a traditional phone plan. Companies in frequent communication with clients worldwide are then moving to VoIP to cut costs on their bottom line. Business Benefits of VoIP Organizations that have upgraded their phone systems to VoIP already understand the benefits of the technology over traditional landlines. If you’re on the fence, there are a few key business benefits of using VoIP that could help you do business better. Cost Savings Phone calls will be coming over a company’s existing Internet network. That means a reduced phone bill and reduced operational costs associated with hardware, and the need for added phone lines over time. There is also the added potential for free Wi-Fi calling, depending on your VoIP plan. This is particularly noteworthy for companies only dealing with domestic calls. Global companies working with international clients will also save money in the long run, as VoIP calling will always be less expensive than calling internationally on a landline. Improved Access & Service Mobility Traditional phone calls are connected to a conventional office space. A versatile phone system allows companies to operate more efficiently in a changing environment where remote work is commonplace and office work is more fluid. Voicemails can go to your email if you’d like, rather than being hosted on a physical phone. Say goodbye to the days of calling into that landline for your messages. A VoIP allows you to go where the business is and where the clients are. It’s easier to telecommute and operate globally if your company is working on an international scale with VoIP. It’s also easier to connect when collaboration is needed or desired, whether through conference or video calls. Landlines won’t be taken up by callers looking to dial into the network, making it easier to reach one another. That access improves overall service at an organization. More Effective Customer Service VoIP allows for more control over the customer experience. On top of reaching customers and clients more efficiently, an organization can customize how they deal with incoming customer service calls. For example, a company that doesn’t want a customer to leave a voicemail may route that caller to someone available at that moment. That immediate connection may make the difference in that customer’s satisfaction with that interaction and business down the line. Employees can also use VoIP to fax over IP rather than using that outdated machine back at the office. Organizations working with frequent faxing as a service will enjoy the flexibility and reliability of doing so no matter where they’re working. The Quickbase Connection At Trinity, we understand the power of simplifying processes and improving efficiencies to operations. An added benefit of VoIP is easily integrating with existing applications already in place at your organization. TrinityVoIP is directly connected to Quickbase, providing your company with an added layer of efficiency and a more seamless way not only to communicate but collaborate. Trinity VoIP allows you to: Simplify your communication systems, enhance your customer service, and improve your reach with clients and your client base. Contact us at Trinity and request a quote to improve the quality of what you do tangibly. […]

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Why You Should Use a Weather Monitoring System at Job Sites

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Anyone who has managed a job site has dealt with weather conditions that have delayed their project. Weather is a tricky factor for any industry that conducts business outdoors. Every company that operates outside has dealt with changing weather conditions.  Everyone from the construction industry to event companies to general contractors has to deal with this constant challenge. If a project is delayed by weather, demanding clients sometimes create disputes around weather delays! On the flip side, weather can even damage equipment or a job site: forcing costs to climb.    What Weather Monitoring Systems Do Weather monitoring solutions, like TrinityWeather, provide automated weather tracking that makes tracking weather at any job site easy.  Weather monitoring systems are ideal for helping your business log and track weather to identify why delays occur. You can also utilize historical information to see how the weather might impact your operations or how microclimates might affect your job site.  Weather monitoring can be helpful to account for missed deadlines with a client. You can reference your TrinityWeather data to show any project delays.    There are multiple types of weather data to consider in construction management: Historical Data: Past weather trends are useful for planning long-term or multi-year projects. Weather Forecasts: Perfect for weekly scheduling, planning, and project management. How a Weather Tracker Can Help You Deal With Extreme Weather It’s pretty simple. TrinityWeather is a Quickbase add-on that captures weather details and provides valuable reporting and trend analysis. The TrinityWeather add-on is a weather monitoring system: you merely enter your job site location and start collecting local weather data.  As you can see above, weather data is automatically collected, and you can capture the weather as many times per day as needed for historical reporting.   Weather Factors to Consider Risk management is a massive aspect of project success. The construction industry, in particular, deals with adverse weather conditions as a primary factor of risk management. This is due to safety precautions and delays that invariably arise due to bad weather.  Utilizing an add-on like TrinityWeather within your Quickbase application can improve project planning and increase flexibility. It’s nice to check up with an app that works on your mobile phone and integrates with your project management software. This way, your entire team can access the information with their Quickbase applications.   Making Business Process Automation Easy At Trinity, we have substantial experience working with clients to automate their business processes. We use Quickbase because it’s a low-code business application customized to meet your precise requirements. We’re all about making business process improvement easy to integrate with existing business operations.  Many companies are dealing with outdated systems and processes. Plain and simple. Our solutions are designed for total business process improvement to help increase efficiency.  We like to use the following adjectives to describe our service: seamless, customized, and secure. Trinity works with clients to improve efficiency, increase service levels, and upgrade the quality of their output.  Our team can easily integrate our TrinityWeather add-on with your existing work management tools on your Quickbase platform. Contact us today to streamline your business and make weather less of a worry – and more of a factor that can be dealt with logically.  Request a Demo Feel free to schedule a no-obligation consultation call today! It’s an excellent opportunity to speak with a team member and view a demo of TrinityWeather in action. […]

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The Benefits of Automated Loan Originator License Tracking

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Managing mortgage loan originator (MLO) licensing can be time-consuming, particularly if you’re navigating multiple licensing processes in numerous states.   License tracking and management have traditionally been done as a manual process. Individuals were tasked with following the license requirements at the federal and state level.    There are better ways. Take a look at how you can better manage MLO licensing with an automated license tracking and management system.     Challenges in the Loan Originator License Process The S.A.F.E Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 established minimum licensing standards and registration requirements for loan originators across the country. Additional requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis by the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS).   In 2018, a provision under the SAFE Act was passed and made effective the following year. That provision, the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act, is known today as the Temporary Authority to Operate. It allows for loan originators in the renewal process to work while they await final license approval.    The act streamlined processes for those seeking licenses in new states or moving from federal to state loan licenses.    It can be challenging to follow the requirements on both the state and federal levels. That task often falls to teams who track those requirements and their status using paper-based or manual processes. Manual tracking causes lapsed days when the process could be moved forward, reporting errors, the silo effect, and missed deadlines, which can mean approval delays for loan originators.    Manual reporting is also time-consuming, which means less time to focus on an organization’s long-term goals and provide data for strategic planning.    Benefits of Automated License Tracking and Management Automated tracking of licensing eases the burden on loan originators and team members tasked with manual document management. The benefits in support of this level of business process automation are numerous.   A Centralized, Streamlined Approach An automated process for license tracking and management allows for one central location of any MLO licensing information. Users can track real-time data and progress on upcoming deadlines and potential eligibility issues. This ensures that updates are completed without delay, potentially speeding up the license approval process.   State-by-State Data Automated processes eliminate the guesswork behind how licensing requirements differ state by state. Users can track tasks remaining by state or branch to easily see the status and any remaining to complete by deadlines.    The value of a feature like this cannot be overstated. Automation frees up staff for other priorities and offers loan originators peace of mind.  Greater Oversight Organizations with several employees in various phases of meeting licensing requirements will appreciate the added oversight of an automated workflow. Available data will keep all team members on track with meeting requirements and follow-up by business leaders as necessary.    Businesses can even automate reminders of upcoming renewal dates and requirements.  Flexible Reporting on Trend Data Customized solutions like loan origination software allow organizations to track relevant licensing data and address any inefficiencies on their teams. Data collected by the application can enable relevant information-gathering to spot trends that provide valuable information to a company’s strategic plan/or processes that need to be addressed.   The needs of organizations differ, after all. Solutions should be adaptable to meet unique needs to ensure your organization improves inefficiencies rapidly.    Who Would Benefit from Loan Originator License Tracking? Loan origination management software can benefit financial institutions working with mortgage loans, mortgage brokers, and loan applications – particularly across state lines.    Automated tracking of loan originator status is an easy win. Any organization that wants to streamline its licensing processes is a good fit for automatic license tracking and management.    You’ve read about the benefits, but those benefits can mean significant results at your organization, including:   Improved efficiency around license completion and approvals Data tracking for license approval or task completion Additional opportunities for collaboration among team members   Contact Trinity to Learn More About License Tracking and Management Software Trinity’s license tracking and management software is an intuitive solution that takes the guesswork out of loan originator management. Take a seamless, streamlined approach to what is otherwise a cumbersome process and get your loan originators on track for success. […]

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Trinity’s Quickbase App Development Process

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Many kinds of software solutions are quick and easy to set up and provide fixes to everyday business process problems. However, not every app is suitable for every user. That’s why over 6,000 companies use Quickbase as their low-code platform that is customizable to their unique business processes.  For companies without access to expert coders, Quickbase app development is the ideal solution. You’ll see why a platform like Quickbase wins out when comparing customs apps vs. off-the-shelf software solutions. What Is Quickbase? Quickbase is a low-code application platform that can gain real-time insights and automate across platforms. In addition, Quickbase is customizable and responsive. The platform allows a company to create unique business applications that meet the needs of a workplace. Whether that’s the automation of workflows, steps toward digital transformation, or data tracking, Quickbase applications are a fantastic software solution. Quickbase App Development: Steps to Create Custom Apps with Trinity As with all application development platforms, there are a few steps to Quickbase app development that make the process seamless. Requirements Definition The first step of any development project is defining requirements for that project and mapping out a process for bringing a project to fruition. In app development, that means defining your business processes and creating a table structure based on project goals, and working within an organization’s existing systems.   Trinity’s Responsibilities We’ll help capture your vision for how your processes should be going forward and define a table structure for your app that makes sense for your business. Trinity will spend time learning about existing workflows and business processes to provide ongoing support around app development and potential improvements down the line. From there, we’ll help capture your vision for how your processes should be going forward and define a table structure for your app that makes sense for your business. This vision will allow your business to grow long-term while improving efficiencies and customer service levels in the short term. Your Responsibilities Engagement in the development process is essential, particularly in this initial phase as we gather feedback goals for the app. We’ll also need your approval of any requirements before moving forward. Roles and Permissions Roles and permissions refer to anyone using the app and any specific permissions that need to be put into place ahead of your app’s launch. There may be particular individuals who have editing or administrative permissions, such as others limited to viewing only. Trinity’s Responsibilities We’ll explain any differences in access to the app and how to make sure necessary individuals have access as appropriate, whether that means editing or viewing permissions. We’ll also give you a primer on how role permissions can be applied to customize your app.  Common permissions, for example, can be applied at the Table, Record, or Field level, control adding or deleting records, saving reports, or customizing field properties within the app. Your Responsibilities Your project team will need to identify roles and permissions for the app and share those with us. This may mean conversations around roles and responsibilities, identifying citizen developers, and how to assign roles to make ongoing app development and use seamless and efficient.  Development Trinity embraces the iterative development method for all our projects. Instead of developing the client’s solution in isolation for a few weeks or months then bringing it to you for approval, we develop portions of the project in stages. At the completion of each stage, we ask the client’s project team to test and provide feedback; then, we make the appropriate changes as needed. Once the client approves everything, we move on to the next stage of development.  In many cases, we can work on multiple stages of development concurrently.  Trinity’s Responsibilities As the app is developed, we will keep you informed on opportunities to see the app at work while it’s in progress. In addition, any feedback we receive at those early development stages will be incorporated before the completion of the app. If anything comes up as part of the development process outside the original project’s scope, we’ll document those findings as they may be valuable for future enhancements. Our goal here is transparency and creating open lines of communication for a successful project. We’ll be meeting with any key team members regularly to make sure that happens. Your Responsibilities Your feedback is essential here. You’ll need to be open to scheduling and attending any review sessions to incorporate your input into the result. We’ll have you testing the app thoroughly in the next phase, but you will be asked to test components along the way. Testing Testing will occur while the app is in development and once the finished project is received. This is a critical component in identifying any last-minute changes before app implementation.  Trinity’s Responsibilities We’ll be making sure that testing is available at all stages of app development and that relevant team members all have access to test all components of app functionality.  Once app development is complete, we’ll run end-to-end testing to ensure the Quickbase app is running correctly on our end. Your Responsibilities You know your organization best. Testing the app will allow you to see that each component is working as expected. We’ll ask for thorough testing on your part to identify whether any final changes are needed and that the app was designed as you intended.  Training  We won’t cut you loose once the app is developed. Instead, Trinity will see you through training sessions to make sure anyone who needs access to the app knows how to use it and would be able to train others in using the app as well. Trinity’s Responsibilities  On top of training team members, we’ll share strategies around employee buy-in and effective app implementation.  We’ve found that an app’s rollout is most successful when key stakeholders have access to project status along the way and are allowed opportunities for feedback ahead of app implementation. Your Responsibilities  Communicating your feedback to us is undoubtedly important, but it’s also important […]

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Meet the Full Suite of Products from Trinity Integrated Solutions

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Businesses looking to improve their efficiency, improve customer engagement, and support overall growth may be overwhelmed by the options out there promising to help a company do all of those things. As business and tech innovations improve, so do your range of options.  At Trinity, the focus is on customized solutions based on a company’s unique needs and stated goals. We have the products to match those needs and to help you innovate and meet your future business needs, as well.  Let’s take a look at the Quickbase products offered by Trinity Integrated Solutions that will take your business to the next level, improving productivity along the way. TrinityCalendar The TrinityCalendar is a scheduling tool that allows users to boost efficiency in the workplace with its seamless approach to managing schedules company-wide. Businesses and employees that use the tool can coordinate schedules at a glance. That means avoiding overbookings, double bookings, and time lost due to scheduling and scheduling conflicts. Features include drag and drop or click to create schedules, filters, and customizable views, all fully integrated with your Quickbase application.   TrinityScan Businesses looking for a mobile inventory management tool will benefit from TrinityScan, a barcode scanning system integrated with the rest of a company’s Quickbase apps. Scannable barcode types include DataMatrix, QR codes, vehicle identification numbers, Code 39 and Code 128 barcodes, and more.  TrinityMobile TrinityMobile is an important tool for businesses looking to improve productivity and access for field workers, particularly in environments where remote work is becoming the norm. The app works with Android and iOS users and allows for access to workflow processes needed by key employees. Imagine the ease of inventory management at your fingertips, for example, along with a whole host of additional applications. TrinityMobile is a major boost to workplace efficiency. TrinitySurvey The TrinitySurvey tool is useful for creating custom surveys, managing responses, and measuring results to allow for data-based decision-making. The tool is also capable of creating checklists, questionnaires, and audits as needed. Gather the quick, custom results you need with TrinitySurvey. TrinitySync Businesses struggling to integrate existing processes as they update their applications will benefit from TrinitySync. TrinitySync gives a company the ability to link Quickbase to many popular software, social media, and digital platforms, ensuring that a company is ready to innovate and prepare for the future.  TrinitySync can link Quickbase to your Dropbox/digital storage tools, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and even your email marketing platform. If you’re looking to integrate your applications, streamline your core processes to make them as efficient as they can be, and save costs along the way as you eliminate inefficiencies, consider the possibilities with TrinitySync.   TrinityMultifileUploader The TrinityMultifileUploader makes file management easy and efficient. Features include the ability to both upload and download multiple files at once, easily monitor the progress of file activity, and create a customized digital filing system. Manage files with ease and boost the user experience with this file management app. TrinitySignature The benefits of using digital signatures are numerous and include an increase in productivity and decrease in paperwork, cost-savings in terms of paper and labor supplies, and a security boost for both the company and the client. TrinitySignature makes switching to digital signatures at a company easy.  It works with web-based Quickbase applications and a custom, mobile-integrated version, making it easy to access from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.  TrinityMaps Companies that would benefit from mapping features that link up to existing Quickbase applications, whether that’s to improve the management of mobile workflows or create a more seamless approach to routing and scheduling of orders, will like the features on TrinityMaps. Those features include geocoding, distance calculation, routing, search capabilities, and more. Users are also able to customize the app for their purposes.  Solutions Customized for Your Business Now that you have an overview of the products that Trinity has to offer you and your business, take advantage of that knowledge, and find the customized Quickbase solution for your needs.  Trinity has been working with clients for over 22 years to improve their processes and prepare them for the future. […]

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Does Remote Work Raise Cybersecurity Issues?

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Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, companies have been working diligently to adapt to a changing landscape, with some even announcing long-term plans for remote work. Employees have risen to the challenge, and companies have certainly come up with out-of-the-box solutions around managing a remote workforce.  But even with those efforts, unique challenges have come up, particularly when companies are needing to respond to concerns around cybersecurity.  With personal and professional lives are blurred, cybersecurity issues can come up in a few different ways: Home Wi-Fi networks and devices are more susceptible to hacking Companies have less control over corporate structures, and what employees say and do In-person communication is replaced by virtual environments Luckily, there are solutions out there to make remote work safe, secure, and more efficient. Several of these solutions involve convenient products and services available from Trinity. Addressing Potential Cybersecurity Remote Work Risks  Below are strategies around addressing cybersecurity issues that may come up with remote work, including services and products we provide that we know will make your workplaces safer as you meet your business goals. Identify Needs Among Your Employees Even companies who aren’t new to remote work may need to do some work around identifying blind spots when it comes to cybersecurity. Often, those blind spots arise in understanding what employees need to turn their home office into a safe, secure, and efficient working environment. We’ll go into this next, but it’s important to identify whether your employees are even set up to work from home. Make sure you’re able to answer these two questions to allow for safe, secure working environments for your employees: Do my employees have the tools, e.g. the appropriate hardware, sufficient bandwidth, network access, or virtual apps for things like online scheduling or virtual meetings to be successful as a remote worker? Do my employees have the skills or necessary training completed to participate in the workplace on a virtual level?  Once needs are identified, address those weak spots. Make a plan to equip your employees with what they need to be successful, whether that’s additional hardware to connect to your company’s security systems or training around phishing schemes. Some of this may be uncharted territory for your employees. A pandemic tends to create uncharted territory!  There are already plenty of tools out there, by the way, that not only boost your data security but boost productivity among your remote workers, as well. The Trinity Multifile Uploader for Quickbase, for example, allows for efficient file management no matter where your employees are working from.  Protect Your Data from Hackers and Phishing Scams It isn’t surprising that a whole host of problems have cropped up from employees using their home networks and personal devices to conduct company business. Home networks just don’t have the same security and maintenance as in-house systems. A company’s IT personnel quickly address any suspicious activity as soon as it happens, keeping breaches and issues to a minimum. Unfortunately, phishing scams (where hackers get into a company’s data systems by sending out emails that may look like they’re from company bosses) have become even more widespread with the extension of remote work. Luckily, high-quality application development platforms like Quickbase meet all security standards to keep your data safe. Coupled with virtual training around available tools and how to spot data breaches and phishing behavior, companies can fight back against hackers. Use Secure Tools When In-Person Communication Isn’t Possible You don’t need to reinvent the wheel when looking for ways to enhance security around remote work, even when you’re looking to do things typically done in-person. If you’re working in any number of industries where in-person communication is needed to sign off on official documents, for example, utilizing a digital signature allows you to maintain those transactions in a safe, secure way.  A digital signature like our own TrinitySignature is actually even more secure than the traditional paper variety. Digital signatures, also known as electronic signatures, allow the recipient to see a time stamp on when that document was signed, in effect allowing for an added layer of security on that virtual document. And virtual meetings likely aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, either. Using a video conferencing platform with high marks for safety and security is an important step in not only keeping your company’s data safe, but keeping your employees feeling secure when participating in virtual meetings. Have Plans in Place? Solidify Them The pandemic likely threw a number of companies for a loop as far as preparedness is concerned. Companies needed fresh plans around how to go about handling a changing workplace, crafting long-term remote work policies, and determining what the future of work even looks like even after what could be the new normal. After you retool your processes and come up with solutions to both support that remote workforce and improve your company’s security standards, it’s important to create ways to maintain those new standards.  Hopefully, a pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime situation that you’ll only need to create one set of procedures for.  Still, companies should also use this time to problem-solve through other kinds of scenarios that may arise unexpectedly. While many government and medical officials saw Covid-19 coming, most businesses did not.  Remote Work Can Be Done Safely As tools evolve in a changing world, your company should, too, especially as it relates to cybersecurity and the health of your business. These strategies are a good start in addressing cybersecurity concerns as remote work remains the default for companies for the foreseeable future.  Still have questions about how to keep your data and employees safe while working remotely in today’s changing world? Contact Trinity today to learn more about our solutions and how we can help.  […]

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5 Industries That Benefit From Having Geocode Apps

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Every single point on earth can be described with longitude and latitude. Google and Apple maps and many more platforms depend on this Geographic Information System (GIS) data to get consumers from place to place.  Businesses, too, can create geographic information system based apps to streamline processes, reduce costs, refine marketing initiatives, and more.   Street addresses have limits, after all. Pinpointing a customer or employee through their smartphone signal makes for more accurate interaction. For instance, a GIS-based app can help a pizza delivery person reach them at a park or beach. An ambulance trying to reach an injured hiker can’t depend on a street address. Finally, in developing countries, many homes don’t even have street addresses, yet businesses need to reach them.  Leveraging Geocode Applications for Businesses Smartphones can help in providing information about latitude and longitude with great precision—up to 15 feet with the help of GIS technology. Web browsers and applications by higher-end service providers are aimed at supporting geolocation features designed to provide geographic coordinates even in the absence of a smartphone. These applications are capable of linking geographic coordinates to the respective street addresses as well. This process is referred to as reverse geocoding. The mechanism aims at taking an address and converting it into the respective geographic coordinates. In such instances, a reference dataset is required to relate the respective geo-coordinates to a given set of street addresses.  Industries That Benefit From Geocode and GIS Solutions Here are some of the leading industries that have significantly benefited from the introduction of geocoding apps into their day-to-day operations. Gaming Just when we thought video-gaming couldn’t get more complex and involved, companies launched GIS-based gaming.  Games like SimCity and World of Warcraft that are set in fantasy worlds don’t involve GIS. It’s the high-end games like Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty that depict real-life places and cities in places like California, Iraq, and others. Game developers work with GIS to keep cities, battlefields, and other locations accurate. This precision allows the players to fully immerse themselves in the given scenarios, lending the realism they’ve come to expect.   Marketing Digital advertising tactics like sentiment analysis, coupon distribution, and more depend on location-based data to win the best return and response. GIS-based or geocode-enabled apps for location analytics create accurate, cost-effective marketing initiatives that reduce uncertainties, drive profitability, and maximize performance. Security & Defense Civil administrators must monitor and analyze population, traffic patterns, and crimes to keep society running smoothly. GIS-enabled utilities help in identifying specific hotspot areas while facilitating insights that can improve civil administration oversight.  Travel & Transport GIS apps are critical for urban planning as well as trucking and transportation companies.  If a city’s transportation department is planning to introduce a  new railway or park, they turn to GIS data for the numbers to select the routes. Trucking companies rely on GIS apps to keep track of dispatched truck locations and destination arrival times.  GIS is also helpful in monitoring road conditions and rail systems for improved performance.  Natural Resource Management GIS-based applications for environmental management, agriculture, mining, oceans, conservation, and forestry collect the data to make critical decisions about resource distribution, staffing, and more.  TrinityMaps: Delivering Geocode Applications for Improved Operations TrinityMaps showcases Trinity’s ability to provide clients with advanced geocode applications that unlock a myriad of feature-rich mapping functionalities. Utilizing the Quickbase platform and mobile applications allow users access to multiple mapping functionalities, including geocoding, distance calculation, routing and scheduling, GIS or data overlays, routing, search capabilities, and mobile workflows. Trinity provides numerous custom business software solutions and Quickbase solutions for the business user. Quickbase is a low code, low-cost business solution and application development and online database platform that specializes in aiding business flexibility, efficiency, and communication. It is easily scalable, making it perfect for businesses of most sizes and across most industries. […]

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