ServiceDesk 4.4.53 Update 03/01/10

For quite a while, we've had a couple of handy, half-hidden functions in the Current-JobRecords form (F7).  Some of the buttons there do alternate duty if right-clicked on, instead of the standard left-click.  Of particular note here, the "enter funds Rcvd" button can be right-clicked for an instant viewing of all monies collected on the job; or you can right-click on the "orDer parts" button for an instant viewing of all connected parts-process items (you can float your mousepointer over other buttons to review their alternate functions, where applicable). 

Last week, I got an email from Allison at Dependable Services asking for similar capabilities in the Archived-JobRecords form (Ctrl-F7).  It made too much sense to resist, so now has been added (please understand, these are in-context, conveniencesearches; the same searches have always been available from within their own operational contexts, elsewhere).  In the new context (and as you can see below), these "Show Me" functions are not alternate/back-door operations for the buttons involved.  They are the exclusive, on-the-face purpose for each. 

BeforeAfter

Since the updated form has the same quantity of buttons as before, you may wonder what we did with the functions those same button positions used to provide.  On consideration, we realized those old functions did not need to be in this form.  One of them ("Dbs Index Utility") already had separate access via the MainMenu, and we moved access to the other function there as well. 

Old "File Functions" MenuImproved and Simplified "File Functions" Menu

In fact, we did not want to just keep adding items to that menu section (it was already a sufficiently long list as to be potentially confusing).  Honoring that concern, you'll notice that an added element of work was to reorganize File Functions, placing several items into fly-out subcategories.  This considerably simplifies the main list. 

 I was given this idea by Steve at Gulgren's Appliance.  You're likely familiar with Windows ToolTips: little clues and hints that pop up when you float your mousepointer over various objects (we use them a lot in ServiceDesk).  We are now using something similar in the DispatchMap.  If your mousepointer floats for more than 1/10th of a second over any job reference there (either graphic or list type), a ToolTip-like window will display, showing some added details on the job. 

Currently (as you can see in the example above), the popup provides job InvoiceNumber, along with Type and Make of machine being serviced.  I suspect there may be requests to add some more details, which I'll certainly be willing to consider.  Please bear in mind, though, all it takes is a Ctrl-right/click to see the entire job, so it certainly makes sense to keep what's shown in this popup comparatively limited.  

A couple of years ago we added the ability to direct-email tickets from the FinishedForms context (Alt-F4).  Occasionally since, we've had complaints about legibility and clarity in the emailed images.  It was generally an issue only if the image included very small graphic-based print, as in the disclaimer section of an underlying ticket image.  This release addresses those clarity concerns.  In addition to the fact that such tiny print will now be legible, the image files (as attached to the emails which the method produces) will be now be in .PNG format, instead of the .JPG format as was formerly used.  PNG is a newer and more efficient graphic standard.  Even with much better resolution, it allows use of smaller file sizes.