Computer Tech & IT Admin Tool Kit Version 0.1a

[jeubank]

============================
Computer Tech & IT Admin Tool kit Version 0.2d
============================

Hey everyone, I wanted to share with all of you, an Idea I have had. I enjoy immensely reading all the posts & discussion related to our business. I may have not said too much, but I do check the forums everyday.
Having said that – a lot of questions regarding good Tech Tools, PC Tracking, Invoicing & Billing, Shop Management, etc. Then during a shot of J&B Scotch I had a thought. As a Techie, Business Owner, Programmer, and Artist… I said – Hey… Lets make our own?!?!!? I put something together in the weee hours, and so far like what I see.
If the community of Technibble can get behind this idea, I would love to collaborate, share, and develop our own, geared towards what we want tool!
WHATCHA THINK?!?!

It is written in C# using the Unity Game Engine. It will be deployed over the web using a webpage, on the Tech’s own computer as an Application, in both MAC OS and Windows Variants, and an Ipad application.

It will be able to run the latest and greatest portable Tech Tools, and applications. Whether stored on a USB device or though the webpage.

New Work Orders, ask for pertinent information, generates invoices for printing / email, and populates a Database so that through PHP on the web, the customer can track and follow his or her status.
RSS Feeds of Technibble! as well as Forums
KB Articles embedded within the application.

==========================
Version 0.2c Changelog:
==========================

- Added Pending & Previous Work Orders
- Added Crystal Disk, Mbam, Hijack This Apps (Hijack this is activated)
- "Internet Graphic Loading" enabled on Main Menu (currently pulls technibble logo for testing. If this does not work, let me know. I am checking to see if my network code is working.
- Rebuilt Network code to utilize both TCP and UDP
- Work Order Saves
- Added Print Work Order / Update Map buttons (not functional as of yet)
- Removed Customer ID # for the time being. I forgot to make it searchable in customer list. have to rebuild it
- Activated Customer List scene
- Initial Customer List GUI Layout.

Download Link: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=WKZJE8E0 (0.2d)
===============================
Planned Features:
===============================[/B]

- Customer Status Page over the Web (Customer can type in WO# and Last name, and bring up status of their machine
- Invoicing with Payment Gateway API support of Authorize.net, google checkout, paypal, etc.
- Report Generation
- Simplicity and Ease of use. Nothing extra that is not related to Our Tech Business
- Customer Database, including Hardware & Software, prior issues, and support calls
- Mailing List generation from the Customer Database

TECHNIBBLE TECHS. Need input, Help, support, and above all, your thoughts and comments and what you would like to see.

ScreenShot:
See included Attachment

Download Link: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=WKZJE8E0 (0.2d)

 

[jeubank]

Version 0.1 Download link:
https://rapidshare.com/files/334738877/Techie_by_PCLABS.rar

 

[jeubank]

Im thinking about implementing BAT scripts and maybe AutoIt Scripts as well. I have a few I have made myself for the highest volume of Computer related issues.

Another thing I would like the application to do, is "Build a Profile" of the PC you are working on, and then import it into the Customer Database. That way, detailed information on every customer's computer can be had in 2 clicks, for repeat customers...

But just brainstorming at the moment

 

[jeubank]

Also, please, Applications you would like to see on the Tools list is always appreciated. I have a list of about 19 programs I find critical usually

 

[timmymacs]

I'm a little confused but from what I can gather this is a very good idea. Is there anyway of integrating not only the system specs of the customers machine, but a checklist on exactly what work you did on their machine, software you installed, maybe even hours logged etc and then exporting this to a work report for your records and theirs? or is that what you are talking about already.

 

[jeubank]

I'm a little confused but from what I can gather this is a very good idea. Is there anyway of integrating not only the system specs of the customers machine, but a checklist on exactly what work you did on their machine, software you installed, maybe even hours logged etc and then exporting this to a work report for your records and theirs? or is that what you are talking about already.

Great idea - I know PC Repair Tracker has this ability, though I have never used it.

Essentially, if we can nail down a good design first, then the implementation would be easier.

However, what I was talking about, was showing a detailed list of Hardware, software, registry , OS specs attached to each customer's database entry, plus running processes (before / After) and some other detail.

However - what you said makes perfect sense - and, would be great to report back to the customer if he/she inquires to what the status of the Job is. So as the Tech checks off assignments completed, a green check is labeled on the Work Order, Plus a log saved to the customer database, plus the Website Reporting Work Order System (dont really have an idea as to what to call it) reports back to whoever is viewing a "dumbed down, end-user friendly" Work Order. Good idea

 

[Methical]

I see potential in this.

I know of a few AIO projects out there; but this one includes the business/admin side of things as well. Great idea !

You have permission to use any scripts that I have created for the community, or take pieces; as long as credit is given, and as long as the product remains freeware/open-source.
EDIT:

For the Tech Tools, get hold of AtYourService, and see if you can include his TechTools database using Ketarin. Update some of the links, and create a nice launcher.

+ Add the ability for it to be easily re-branded.

Also,
Please use the edit button in future, instead of quad-posting

 

[jeubank]

I see potential in this.

I know of a few AIO projects out there; but this one includes the business/admin side of things as well. Great idea !

You have permission to use any scripts that I have created for the community, or take pieces; as long as credit is given, and as long as the product remains freeware/open-source.

Great - thanks for the ability to use your scripts. I was thinking about going around and asking people for permission and of course crediting as necessary.

I dont want this to be another AIO tool. The Administration / Business side as well as the ability to do reports, management, projects etc are all attached into play.

Lets Assume the following:

Tech brings USB Flash drive to a customer's desktop on-site --> The USB Flash Drive has this Tool loaded onto it - and prepares to do his job:

Tech will have customer data / work order already prepared prior to going on-site, So, he opens the work order, and every time he runs a program it or tool, it logs it on the work order under *TECH EYES ONLY* / and another report for the customer that labels it as a generic (So, just in case Malware Bytes rips it out, and you do the manual removal right along side it as well, The customer doesnt see. WAIT! you charged me $120 to run a scan from freeware?)

That way, the tech is finished, its already logged on the work order, no need to update it. He can just hit Print, Email, etc. Plus Invoice. All working together in absolutely harmony (hey, a dev can dream)

 

[jeubank]

What about a Customer centered version. - lets say you set up your shop using this software, customized with all its info and logo, etc.

And you want to create a simple, small Branded logo on the desktop for the customer, all tied into the Main program run from your shops computers? well, "Create Customer Application" which provides 2 clicks to either, phone (voip), email, IM support, Request Remote Session, and maybe... link to website, or something like that. Plus you can make the application monitor the customer's machine 24/7 (customer's permission of course) as well.. I dunno. Just brainstorming at the moment

 

[Kitten Kong]

I rather like this idea also. I have just downloaded and attempted to install the prog, and have the following error.

Data folder not found.

There should be 'TechieV02_Data'
folder next to the executable

I got this by d clicking the techiev02.exe

 

[jeubank]

I rather like this idea also. I have just downloaded and attempted to install the prog, and have the following error.

Data folder not found.

There should be 'TechieV02_Data'
folder next to the executable

I got this by d clicking the techiev02.exe

You need to extract the Data Folder and the EXE into the same Directory, desktop, or wherever you wish. It is in a RAR file. Unextract them both into same directory.

Version 0.2a will be released in about 1 hour. making some quick updates, changes, and adding some actual functionality! WOOHOO

 

[Kitten Kong]

Also, please, Applications you would like to see on the Tools list is always appreciated. I have a list of about 19 programs I find critical usually

Thanks Justin. Here is a short list of tools, I would like to see included.

Crystal Disk
CCleaner
Iobit Uninstaller / revo / pc decrapifier
mbam
sas portable
autoruns
process explorer
rkill
imgburn
bluescreen view
otl
combofix
tdss killer
fabs
iepv
passwordfox
wireshark
winsock xp
speccy
magic jelly bean
hitmanpro both x32 and x64

those are all I can think of, off the top of my head.

I managed to get it installed this time thanks. Last time, there was a whole heap of files in the dl, rather than just the 2... the exe and data.

Look forward to putting it through its paces.

 

[jeubank]

Version 0.2a uploaded

After a few more hours, I made some good progress.

I am also working off of a design document I typed up. I will be adding of course, Tech Applications which will be in a seperate section. speaking of sections - I am going to break down all applications into sections.

***********Important note****************

This is crucial. What do you want the Work Order sheet to look like? or function? what data do you want to see or not see specifically?

The new work order is an area where either a customer calls or brings in a machine, and the Tech or Customer Service individual will take the call, taking Customer information, computer information, problem description, etc..... What does the TechNibble community think in the way it should be laid out, and what info it should have? I cannot really progress untill I get a good response from the community. I want it to be a community effort!




==============================
Changelog version 0.2a:
==============================
-Initial Work Order layout / Input completed
-Firefox Portable download/launch from Tools section
-Added Administration login screen and initial code
-Work Order generates code based upon multipe variables - Company Work Order number or Tech Work Order number, or both.
-Customer ID Generated based upon name variable. Name different, generates new Customer ID Number. Name is the same, it will import data from exsisting data.
-Added back buttons to get back to main menu
-Updated Icon to reflect Application rather than unity logo
-Started work on Icon Graphics for new applications

Minor Updates:
- Code Cleanup & Commenting
- Changed the launch behavior to use half the memory (instead of 12MB it only uses 7MB)

Download Link: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=O4Y17RJQ (version 0.2a)

PS: I will be editing the original post to include the updates, so you dont have to go through the entire thread.

 

[jeubank]

Sneak Peaks

3 days into development, and so far - progress is going faster than i thought.

==================
Upcomming Features for 0.3
==================

-Auto-Updating Google Maps customer Address lookup for work order printing.
-Working New Work Order / Prior Work Orders List
-Customer List updates / history

Screenshot:

==================
Upcomming Features for 0.4
==================

-Applications launch/embedded with program (25+ Applications, tools, and scripts)

 

[Chrisb41]

Great work with each new release I look forward to seeing a full version

 

[indy-pc]

First, let me appologize for my ignorance here. I'm still very much a newbie tech (still studying for my A+ exam) and I'm still trying to make heads or tails of a lot of things. I'm learning, albeit slowly. So, if my questions seem very basic, I hope that you'll understand why.

So, from what I'm understanding is that you are developing (colaborative effort) a sort of "all-in-one" application. This application would be executable from a USB drive so that you could pop in your drive on a client's PC and run it. Once executed, you would be able to auto-log hours and current progress (similar to PCRT), print/email/SMS client work orders and invoices, as well us run handy tech tools such as AV or CCleaner. I think I understand that much so far.

My questions are:
1) You mentioned an iPad app. What functionality would this app have? Just a synced information and an interface for the client to "sign" the work order? If it's only function is just informational and client interaction, I'm sure the iPad app (maybe even iPhone and a non-tech's version) could be very slim to only incorperate what information/functionality we would want the client to see.

2) Assuming this is a multi-device simultaneous sort of program, how does everything stay constantly synced? Is it a web-based application, stored on a server or is it remotely/wirelessly synced? In other words, how does my app at the shop keep track of what the app at the client's location is doing?

3) I'm sure there will never be such a thing as an "end-all-be-all/one-tool-to-fix-everything" tool, so what sorts of things will this NOT be able to do? Would it be bootable? Could I tell it to boot into "UBCD mode" for example within the application? Can it do an OS reinstall? Backup and restore? What are the limitations or things that would be impossible due to the nature of it being a program on a USB drive?


I'm sure I'll have more questions over time, but these are a few that come to mind at the moment. I think it's awesome that you're taking the initiative to help the community at large with your knowledge and abilities. It's one of the things that I truly admire about TN. Again, I hope I'm not offending anyone with my n00bish questions. I'm trying to learn and understand things better so that I can be a better tech. Thanks.

 

[jeubank]

First, let me appologize for my ignorance here. I'm still very much a newbie tech (still studying for my A+ exam) and I'm still trying to make heads or tails of a lot of things. I'm learning, albeit slowly. So, if my questions seem very basic, I hope that you'll understand why.

So, from what I'm understanding is that you are developing (colaborative effort) a sort of "all-in-one" application. This application would be executable from a USB drive so that you could pop in your drive on a client's PC and run it. Once executed, you would be able to auto-log hours and current progress (similar to PCRT), print/email/SMS client work orders and invoices, as well us run handy tech tools such as AV or CCleaner. I think I understand that much so far.

My questions are:
1) You mentioned an iPad app. What functionality would this app have? Just a synced information and an interface for the client to "sign" the work order? If it's only function is just informational and client interaction, I'm sure the iPad app (maybe even iPhone and a non-tech's version) could be very slim to only incorperate what information/functionality we would want the client to see.

2) Assuming this is a multi-device simultaneous sort of program, how does everything stay constantly synced? Is it a web-based application, stored on a server or is it remotely/wirelessly synced? In other words, how does my app at the shop keep track of what the app at the client's location is doing?

3) I'm sure there will never be such a thing as an "end-all-be-all/one-tool-to-fix-everything" tool, so what sorts of things will this NOT be able to do? Would it be bootable? Could I tell it to boot into "UBCD mode" for example within the application? Can it do an OS reinstall? Backup and restore? What are the limitations or things that would be impossible due to the nature of it being a program on a USB drive?


I'm sure I'll have more questions over time, but these are a few that come to mind at the moment. I think it's awesome that you're taking the initiative to help the community at large with your knowledge and abilities. It's one of the things that I truly admire about TN. Again, I hope I'm not offending anyone with my n00bish questions. I'm trying to learn and understand things better so that I can be a better tech. Thanks.

Great questions,

essentially - There will be multiple versions. The Desktop version, which you would put on a thumb drive, would be able to auto-log, run necessary tools, print, email, and web update for customer. The Desktop tool also has the ability to communicate to a web-server which hosts a couple of php files connected to a database. Sending logs and Work Order status updates for the customer, and Computer Shop if one exists.

The Ipad / Android version has functionality as well, albeit without AV Program support. Typing in work orders / updating exsisting work orders / google maps integration / Shop (tech) administration - with sales reports, avg turnaround time, etc.

The Web-based version, runs the program from a browser - sent from the Computer Tech's web-server. Without the need of a USB device. Programs can be launched from the server + work orders updated on the fly while on-site in the clients home if necessary. The program looks and acts exactly the same as the one for the USB Device. (You can goto the Unity Game Development website and see there gallery to see Unity's technology in action inside the browser)


It will not be bootable. It will not be able to do a OS install. The purpose was not to be an all in one application. In fact, you can use it just for the Work order, project management, administration interface and ignore the tools if you like.

All good questions. Never a bad thing to ask. I dont know about a community effort as of yet. Responses have been lacking in that department.

 

[jeubank]

Update to Version 0.2c

==========================
Version 0.2c Changelog:
==========================

- Added Pending & Previous Work Orders
- Added Crystal Disk, Mbam, Hijack This Apps (Hijack this is activated)
- "Internet Graphic Loading" enabled on Main Menu (currently pulls technibble logo for testing. If this does not work, let me know. I am checking to see if my network code is working.
- Rebuilt Network code to utilize both TCP and UDP
- Work Order Saves
- Added Print Work Order / Update Map buttons (not functional as of yet)
- Removed Customer ID # for the time being. I forgot to make it searchable in customer list. have to rebuild it
- Activated Customer List scene
- Initial Customer List GUI Layout.

Download Link: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=ZKMSOA7K (0.2c)

ScreenShot:

 

[indy-pc]

So, would each version (desktop, iOS/Android app, web-based) be able to function independently of each other? Meaning, let's say I don't have a website. Can I still use the other two and have them still be synced? Would the sync occur in real-time in this example or only when I get back to the shop and physically sync my desktop and mobile device?

Personally, I love functionality and tools that make my life easier. As I said before, I'm a newbie tech and I'm still learning, but I imagine that I will want to stream-line my processes and automate as many things as I can. I haven't even touched even the very basic of things (scripting, automation, OS ISOs, etc) at this point, but I'll get there eventually. For now, I try to equate things (as best I can) to things that I know or that I'm familiar with.

Keeping in mind that I have not seen PCRT at all and have only read a little bit about it on TN, it sounds like the basic functionality of your program is essentially a PCRT alternative, yes? What additional features and functionality set your program apart from other programs? Don't get me wrong, I think it's a fantastic idea that you're putting this together and I would love to learn more about it and even help test it. I'm just looking at it from a utilitarian perspective: "Why would I use this verses something similar?" Being free is an awesome incentive to get the budget-conciensous person's attention, but I'm guessing that many folks look for other hooks as well. For instance: ease of use, customizability, accesibility, features/options, etc.

Keep up the great work and I'll try to download, install and play around with it a bit when I get some free time. I don't know how much real help I can be with my limited ability/knowledge, but I might be able to at least help you make it "moron compatable".

 

[jeubank]

PC Repair Tracker, from what I can tell, is one of the best tools for a computer shop. I will not pretend to try and overcome them. However, we do share a lot of the same features. Perhaps my feature set goes into other areas as well, so they differ slightly.

If you do not have a server, or empty box, or shared hosting, or even free hosting account - There is no way to sync them in real time to all applications at once. Without a centralised server / database to send data too, the only way to update, is to start the application once the tech comes back "home". It will (Eventually) update the Database file with all changes.. however, the program will break down to.. If your a sole Technician like yourself. You dont need that.

You can just keep it on a USB drive or ipad (dunno about iphone yet.. a lot of changes would have to be made for the small screen real estate), and go on your merry way. Always updated, always ready. Now, some of the planned features you wont be able to utilize obviously. Like the Customer's Work Order tracking status... Because the customer has no way of getting that info (Just a PHP file linked to Mysql).

In terms of other peoples concerns. Full Branding is in the works with next release (logo, shop data, tech data, etc).

I envision doing 2 applications on multiple platforms....

A Independent Contractor / Solo Tech version

and a Shop Version.

Progress is going faster than I though, I figure in two weeks, it would be something that is actually benefical to techs, and can be used safely. But I wont label it "Production Ready". Because, that term means.. A business can DEPEND on this application.. because i wont be able to say that in two weeks. But it will be close.