Method: Field Services vs mHelpDesk

Method: Field Services helps service businesses manage customer requests, technician schedules, work orders and invoicing, with a two-way QuickBooks sync for estimates, invoices, payments and customer data. Its Work Orders app supports one-time and recurring jobs; the Field Crew app gives technicians a mobile view for calling customers, opening addresses in a map app, tracking time, collecting e-signatures, completing jobs and adding work order items. A Time Tracking app manages entries generated by Field Crew and syncs them with QuickBooks. Dispatchers can optimize routes by distance, travel time and highway preference, though routes do not account for live traffic, are limited to 30 work orders and cannot be planned on mobile. Other listed integrations include Gmail, Google Calendar, Mailchimp, Outlook, Zapier and an API. The service works in a mobile browser and has Android and iOS apps. Pricing lists Field Crew Technician at $18 / month and Dispatcher at $59 / month, both billed monthly. A free trial is offered without commitment or a credit card.

mHelpDesk is field service management software that automates customer contact, scheduling, communication, and billing. Its workflow covers jobs from lead and estimate through job management, invoicing, and customer payment. The calendar lets teams view jobs, schedule staff, assign work, create events, and color-code staff and teams. Customers can choose a service, preferred staff member, and available appointment time through online booking that can be added to a business website. The software supports recurring jobs, invoicing and payments, and a customer portal. It connects with either QuickBooks Desktop or QuickBooks Online, with only one version selectable at a time. Past QuickBooks estimates and invoices are not imported; the maker says the product integrates with QuickBooks rather than replacing it. Listed payment processor options are Square, Stripe, Authorize.Net, and PayPal. Access is available on Android, iOS, macOS, and the web. Plans are Pro at $169 a month for 3 users, Growth at $249 a month for 8 users, and Success at $374 a month for 10 users.