What are the best ways to use technology to improve problem-solving as an FSE?

In my experience and having used an iPad in the field for close on 10 years now, I can tell you that it’s become an invaluable tool for me I would also say that I have only started using a laptop again in the last six months or so. To be honest I find the IPad and iPhone to be far superior in terms of instantaneous knowledge gathering and having all that you need at your fingertips. I’m afraid that the laptop, while still useful is going the way of the CRT.

As a FSE we can use mobile apps and laptops to inspect, troubleshoot, diagnose and repair equipment problem. The best thing is, nowadays there is a remote troubleshooting and servicing technologies prior to visit equipments on person. Using this technology problems may solved remotely. So, the customer become happy since it reduces cost as well as down time.

I have seen the times when laptops were not that popular and easily available. And Tech's used to carry a full Library of manual's for each machine they work on. Now we have cell phones that has a storage capacity of TERABYTES. One could store all manuals in the cellphone and they're easily available and accessible. These devices makes FST's life much more easy. With the internet available on the cellphone, all the information is readily available to access. Also could make a VIDEO CALL to get help. FST could record videos and share with the team and with customer as well. Could share manuals and other documents easily within moments.

Mobile phones and laptops to help gather all required information, prior to undertaking the work. Making sure gave access to any of the required diagnostics TEQ and any tools, including solder kit prior to attending the job.

About service engineer, your question may be anything, but in my understanding based on my experience, showing the way to the service engineer to stand on his own two feet will be the answer to all questions. When I mean to show him the way to stand on his own two feet, I mean to make him not to ask for help if he faces any problem and to solve it by himself. This is the only way to get portfolio worker. PORTFOLIO WORKER = SERVICE ENGINEER

As a Field Service Specialist, smart tools are indispensable for all types of control maintenance interventions, from routine maintenance and troubleshooting to advanced diagnosis of PLC issues. These tools are crucial not only for corrective maintenance but also for advance predictive maintenance. By integration data science analysis applications that provide predictive action recommendations, ensuring operational reliability and minimizing downtime.

One strategy I've found to be highly beneficial as a Field Service specialist is the use of Virtual Machines, particularly for control systems, along with open-source automation applications or simulators. This approach allows me to simulate various loops, especially critical ones that we cannot safely simulate while the system is operational. It provides me with the opportunity to continually update my understanding of different loops within PLC projects, ensuring that my knowledge remains current and up-to-date.

Online learning tools and support community are excellent source of information. Experts are available to help through these platforms. The best part is we could get multiple answers for one question. Everyone shares their experience and knowledge. One could choose what works for him/her. Also you could share your doubts and have them cleared. Using online learning tools and support community, you could take your career at new heights. Too many platform are offering free online learning. GOOGLE, LINKEDIN are one of them. Universities like MTU, CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY and others offers free online courses. Take an advantage of them and improve your knowledge. Always remember, THERE'S NO AGE TO START LEARNING.

Importante tener presente que una cosa es la automatización de los procesos y otras cosas son los procesos mecanizados con aplicaciones autocontroladas por software bajo patrones previamente preestablecidos

Technology is a great tool to help anyone in present time. Just be sure to ask right question and you'll get hundreds of thousands of answers in moment. While most of the aspects are discussed, I'd advise using the AI. Ask a question you're looking an answer for. And AI will show you all the possible answers. Not only that, it'll show the best matching answer first. For example one could ask, HOW TO REPLACE THE MAIN BOARD IN XYZ MACHINE. And within a moment it'll show you all the possible answers and ways to do that which includes how to do video's as well.

1. Remote Diagnostics: Use tools for quick assessment. 2. AR Solutions: Implement on-site augmented reality. 3. Mobile Apps: Provide FSEs mobile access for on-site support. 4. IoT Integration: Utilize IoT for real-time data and predictive maintenance. 5. Collaboration Platforms: Connect FSEs with experts for remote assistance. 6. Data Analytics: Apply AI analytics to optimize troubleshooting. 7. AI-Powered Assistance: Deploy AI for diagnostics and solutions. 8. Cloud-Based Systems: Ensure flexible troubleshooting with cloud access. 9. Training Simulations: Develop virtual simulations for skill enhancement. 10. Communication Platforms: Use efficient tools for real-time collaboration.

Having excess to all your manuals and tech resources, learning from your senior technicians having the proper equipment and or special tools, needed to perform your task. Maintaining proper lotto and safety while doing your task.