Windows Tablets For Fieldwork

[Randall Garrett]

Hey folks,

What seems like a long time ago, I asked the readers here if you thought we should petition Wayne to change the name of this thread to simply be "Tablets for Fieldwork." That is, do away with the Windows-centric aspect...

Back then, the few people who chimed in said to leave it as a Windows-based (only) thread, but I'm asking again...

Back Brian started this thread in early December of 2012, I first jumped in on this thread a few days later. Since virtually all appraisers were running "full suite" Appraisal Software suites at that time, the thrust was to help fellow appraisers wade through the several Windows Tablets (vs. iOS and Android) which met the needs of those in the appraisal profession have a device that could function in the field as well as "on the road." I was fortunate to be in a position to have access to more than my fair share of different devices and that grew considerably as it became more and more important to stay up to date with regard to my software here in North America, and perhaps more so in other parts of the world where we operated. Adding ruggedized devices added another layer when various government entities became our larger markets.

Anyway, it seems to me that today many (if not most) appraisers are relying mainly on browser-based solutions for their daily appraisal-related tasks as opposed to those bulky Windows suites, and some of you are also using iOS and/or Android apps on their phones and tablets. So, is it your desire to start discussing things better related to what most of you are using? By changing the thread's name, we could include the iOS and Android topics without completely ignoring any new information pertaining pertinent upgrades in the Windows space.

As always, this space is devoted to what you folks want as long as you want it that way. I'll note that while I don't get nearly the amount of public and private messages that I did when I was active in the fee appraisal profession as well as the appraisal software business, but a lot of the email seemed to indicate that we really need to open this up to perhaps regain some relevance. By adding iOS and Android devices, it's sure to open things up and possibly get a little contentious (since opinions are strong wit appraisers, LOL) but if we try to remain factual and courteous, we should be ablet to share info that could be beneficial to the whole group...

Just my 2¢ – TIA for your considered thoughts...


+Randall Garrett+
Boerne, TX (ATM)
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[Chris Wagoner]

I m still using windows covertibles as I have found multiple devices to be more of a headache in my opinion. I am however open to efficiency and if a second device , ie android/ios enhances efficiency, I not above looking at it. I like the flexibility that this thread has produced over the years. All that being said, I do not care what the name of the thread is, so long as it still is free to discuss all of the hardware and software available to maintain efficiency in the appraisal business.

 

[Randall Garrett]

I m still using windows covertibles as I have found multiple devices to be more of a headache in my opinion. I am however open to efficiency and if a second device , ie android/ios enhances efficiency, I not above looking at it. I like the flexibility that this thread has produced over the years. All that being said, I do not care what the name of the thread is, so long as it still is free to discuss all of the hardware and software available to maintain efficiency in the appraisal business.

Hey Chris,
I am again, away from my desk ATM, due back on 09/28/2026. Will you remind me which laptop you ended up getting. You can post it here or PM me.
TIA.

+Randall Garrett+
Greencastle, Ireland (ATM)
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[Randall Garrett]

Peripherally related item (?):

As some of you here know, I have not been associated or involved with Apex Software (the company I founded back in the "pencil & clipboard days" when I was an active real estate appraiser) for several years now. These days, and in this thread in particular, I post on tablets, etc. which can be used for various aspects of "field inspection activities" and bordering on "desktop replacements" for some of you when desired or as appropriate. I still follow "sketching" stuff, but not so much in the appraisal-specific areas anymore. You may also remember that I had interests in markets outside of the USA, essentially in locations/markets not serviced by Apex Software and I continue to pay attention to those aspects, but I'm out of touch with the tools current appraisers actually use in their day-to-day inspections, reporting, etc. Of course, I remember all the appraisal software suites of yore, but I don't keep up with the pertinent aspects of the new reporting requirements, especially how they might apply to tablets, phones, etc. so I'm hoping some of my long-time users here can give me the "executive summary" version of what is important these days. I know that this thread mainly touches Fee Appraisers, but if you are a "Mass" Appraiser (County/State) or Insurance type user, I am interested in those aspects as well. I've always been interested in how field inspectors of almost any type do their thing. I know, I really need to get a hobby, LOL. Seriously, whenever I am traveling, I still look at buildings I pass and wonder "How would I measure that?"

Rather than "pollute" this thread, if anyone is interested in sharing their views on this, please PM me here so I can follow up with you individually. If this is of sufficient interest to this particular group, I will start a new thread where others can read, contribute, etc.

Also, as many of you know, I am away from home many times each year. I have put most international travel plans on hold for 2027 as I contemplate a possible move in a few years. I'll be "in country" from "now through most of 2027, traveling to different areas looking at housing, communities, etc. Most times, I'll be in my (now much smaller) motorhome and of course, it has Starlink, and I have my other (newer) gadgets with me, so when appropriate/desired, I can let you know ahead of time if I'll be in your area for a day or two in case anyone wants to meet up.

Regards,


+Randall Garrett+
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