Now, however, computer software systems are available that make these tasks more manageable. For starters, new computerized condition assessment systems automate the field data collection process, greatly improving the accuracy and transmission of condition information. Once data from the field has been collected, it can be integrated with other software products through the use of advanced visual facilities management programs, vastly enhancing the data's usefulness. Used together, these systems can make a real difference in the building management process. Automated condition assessment systems have at their core lightweight, portable pen computers which are carried into the field to collect and organize condition data.
Inspectors use a stylus, rather than a keyboard, to .enter numeric, character or image-type data.
The data is entered into electronic forms which have been developed on the pen computer platform and are tailored to the assessment facility. It structures deficiencies in a hierarchy of systems, sub-systems, and components likely to be found in a wide range of building types. Integrated reference databases provide access to thousands of physical plant deficiencies and recommendations. Pop-up pick lists, check boxes, radio buttons and other input aids simplify data entry and promote uniform results. Photographs of a building can be easily incorporated into the field data.