NextGen: Mobile Field Service App

The challenge

NextGen’s crews were managing work orders, locations and invoicing through a mix of paper forms, text messages and spreadsheets. These tools did not sync, leaving dispatchers without a clear, real-time view of where crews were or how jobs were progressing.

Invoicing was often delayed because completed paperwork had to make its way back to the office. Crews also worked in areas with unreliable mobile coverage, so a solution that depended on a constant internet connection would not fit their daily workflow.

What we built

We built a React Native application for iOS and Android using a shared codebase. The app brought work orders and field updates into one mobile experience, giving crews a practical way to record information while on the job.

An offline-first sync layer allowed crews to capture information in areas with poor signal and synchronise it when connectivity returned. Google Maps integration gave dispatchers visibility into live crew locations when connected, while push notifications alerted teams to new work orders.

Firebase handled authentication and real-time synchronisation. This allowed development to focus on NextGen’s field-service workflow rather than rebuilding supporting infrastructure.

Key features

• Cross-platform mobile access: One React Native codebase supports crews using iOS and Android devices.
• Offline-first data capture: Crews can record field information without a reliable signal and sync updates when connectivity returns.
• Live crew locations: Google Maps integration helps dispatchers see where connected crews are working.
• Work-order notifications: Push notifications keep crews informed about new assignments without relying on separate phone calls.
• Connected field updates: Firebase authentication and real-time sync support a shared view of information between the field and office.

The outcome

More than 200 crew members use the app daily, with job tracking becoming 40% faster. Field updates and location information are easier to access, helping crews and dispatchers stay coordinated.

Supporting both mobile platforms from one codebase also gives NextGen a consistent foundation for maintaining the app and introducing future improvements.