Release Notes December 2023

Launching updates for Platform-related changes, Mobile App, Scheduling alongside Fixes in Cost Control

Introducing Enhancements in Platform and Mobile App, Fixes in Cost Control and Scheduling

Platform-related:

Create a systematic and reliable process for importing data from a spreadsheet template into a form table while ensuring data integrity and accuracy. Importing a spreadsheet template into a form table typically involves involves 3 steps, starting with exporting the form table columns into a spread sheet followed by updating the spreadsheet data. Lastly, importing the spreadsheet into the same form table as a template.

The platform allows administrators to manage contact information more efficiently by configuring locations. This feature streamlines the form creation process by prefilling location details, making it easier for project teams to create forms quickly. Additionally, this feature is particularly beneficial for projects where accurate and consistent location details are essential.

To authenticate, users must enter a One-Time Password (OTP) within the allotted time. With the system's default timeout for 2-factor authentication extended to 5 minutes, users must provide their OTPs within the allotted time or start the login process again(re-login). In such cases, the user must request the administrator to resend the OTP start the login process once more. For additional details, click here.

Show/Hide Checklists based on the Radio Options and Multi-select Drop-downs. The checklist form contains radio buttons and multi-select drop-down menus that control the displaying or hiding of checklists. The radio buttons have the following three options: Yes, No, and NA. To display the relevant checklist on the form, users can create a custom combination by choosing the appropriate checklist(one or more) from the multi-select drop-down and selecting the radio options. As a result, the corresponding checklists are displayed or hidden on the form.

Document Properties enhanced to include more attributes to files. These attributes include user-related information, such as the users or groups associated or tagged with the document. What this means is Document upload now needs owners to provide additional information, such as the users or groups related to it, and this information will be part of the document's metadata. By linking or tagging users to specific files within the Document Manager, users gain more granular control and association with particular documents. Furthermore, the notification system sends an e-mail to the designated users or groups with appropriate permissions about document updates, mentions, or other relevant activities.

The process of creating forms has become more efficient now as users can utilize previously defined fields. This means that existing fields can be reused to create new forms within the same module. This approach not only enhances consistency across different forms but also reduces the effort required to define similar fields repeatedly. It's particularly useful in situations where multiple forms share common data elements or where standardized data entry is necessary.

New form submission now supports capturing the schedule and baseline from the respective pickers. By defining the reference schedule, the associated baseline(s) displays in the drop-down menu for selection. Additionally, users have the flexibility to create a new baseline whenever they need to.

The system now allows deleting attachments without changing the version in any module. This option provides users with a convenient and secure way to manage(delete) attachments without altering the version of the initial(original file) submission.

The system now provides an intuitive interface to enhance user experience in linking or associating the WBS activity to a project-level record. The linked records are exclusive to the activity level and users have an option to select only those records they have permission to within the current space. The synchronization of records between the scheduling interface and web form enhances efficiency and ensures accurate and up-to-date project information. This integrated approach reduces the likelihood of errors and ensures consistency in project data.

Scheduling:

The basic auto-numbering feature available in the system allows users to utilize the defaults and change the Activity ids(prefix or suffix) manually. This change applies only to the New Activities added, and not to the already available or existing ids within the schedule.

The system now offers flexibility in managing activities based on different calendars, catering to scenarios where activities may follow different schedules or timelines. Users can link activities to specific calendars and customize this association for each activity by accessing the Activity Properties.

If an activity follows a different custom, global, or project calendar, users can still apply the same calendar to the activity.

Users can now spotlight activities from the Gantt or Activity table and quickly update the status by using the option to automatically apply actual dates to the activities that has either started, or in-progress, or completed.

Mobile App for Scheduling:

Users can seamlessly interact with WBS activities through the Mobile App and Scheduling Application. The ability to view, create, and submit activities coupled with synchronization of changes between the mobile and scheduling application enhances efficiency and ensures accurate and up-to-date project information. This integrated system provides a smooth workflow for users, reducing the likelihood of errors and ensuring consistency in project data.

Users now have the flexibility to sign in using either their Native app account or their Microsoft credentials through Single Sign-On (SSO). This gives users the convenience of choosing the method that suits them best, while ensuring a straightforward and seamless experience. Users can effortlessly switch between these options within the mobile app and enjoy a hassle-free sign-in process. If Microsoft 2-factor authentication is enabled, the system prompts users to enter a code provided by the Authenticator app(or via OTP), which is then validated by the SSO system. After successful authentication with the Authenticator app, the system grants access to the application.

Cost Control:

This bug fix release focusses on fixing the critical bugs and addressing incorrect behavior in the application, in the process minimizing the risk of creating more bugs.

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What's New in this Update

Final Note

Exto is committed to enhance the overall user experience with every release. Contact Exto for any queries you may have or wish to make recommendations.