What are the best visual aids for collaborative problem solving in Field Service Engineering?

1 Diagrams and schematics

One of the most common and useful visual aids for field service engineering is a diagram or a schematic. A diagram is a simplified representation of a system or a process, showing the main components, connections, and functions. A schematic is a more detailed and standardized diagram that uses symbols and codes to indicate the specifications, parameters, and logic of a system. Diagrams and schematics can help you understand the structure, operation, and behavior of a system, as well as identify and troubleshoot potential issues. You can use diagrams and schematics to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, explaining how a system works, what are the causes and effects of a problem, and what are the possible solutions.

2 Photos and videos

Another effective visual aid for field service engineering is a photo or a video. A photo or a video can capture the actual appearance, condition, and performance of a system or a component, showing the relevant features, defects, and anomalies. Photos and videos can help you document and share your observations, findings, and actions, as well as provide visual evidence and feedback. You can use photos and videos to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, showing what you see, what you do, and what you achieve.

3 Charts and graphs

A third valuable visual aid for field service engineering is a chart or a graph. A chart or a graph is a graphical representation of data, showing the relationships, patterns, and trends among variables. Charts and graphs can help you analyze and interpret data, as well as compare and contrast different scenarios, options, and outcomes. You can use charts and graphs to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, presenting the facts, figures, and results of your work.

4 Drawings and sketches

A fourth useful visual aid for field service engineering is a drawing or a sketch. A drawing or a sketch is a freehand illustration of a concept, idea, or design, showing the key elements, features, and dimensions. Drawings and sketches can help you express and explore your creativity, as well as visualize and refine your solutions. You can use drawings and sketches to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, proposing and discussing your innovations and improvements.

5 Tools and devices

A fifth practical visual aid for field service engineering is a tool or a device. A tool or a device is a physical object that you use to perform a task, measure a parameter, or test a function. Tools and devices can help you execute and demonstrate your work, as well as verify and validate your results. You can use tools and devices to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, showing how you apply your skills, knowledge, and methods.

6 Annotations and symbols

A sixth essential visual aid for field service engineering is an annotation or a symbol. An annotation or a symbol is a text or a graphic that you add to a visual aid to highlight, explain, or emphasize a point. Annotations and symbols can help you clarify and enhance your message, as well as draw attention and interest to your work. You can use annotations and symbols to communicate with other engineers, customers, and vendors, adding details, instructions, and comments to your visual aids.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?