Locksmiths: what kind of mobile software would help you?

[Legion303]

Now that I have an iOS4 capable device to program, I would like to put some of my knowledge to use for downloadable iphone, ipad and ipod touch apps. Bearing in mind that I don't know the legality of making (for instance) a depth & space reference based on a company's copyrighted tables, what kind of software would be helpful in your daily work routine?

The software would likely need to be vague enough so that only specific training and experience will allow anyone to use it, since I can't restrict downloads from the general public. For example, one idea I'm kicking around is a Group 2 graphing app which will automatically graph your contact point progress so you don't have to do it with paper and pencil, but this will only be useful if you already understand how manipulation works. I liken this to the awesome iphone Ballistics app--if you don't already know how to shoot (manipulate), it won't turn you into a trained sniper (safe/vault tech).

-steve

[allamericanlock]

i would love for someone to make a key code app for the iphone/ipad. As far as the legality you could make the app free initially but without the password(that you provide after they have submitted the proper credentials) the app is not usable. once they put in the password it charges xx amount of dollars. This goes the same for other usefull apps such as a car opening app or just a handy auto key blank reference guide like ilco print out every year.

[Tyler J. Thomas]

How about a program that can either a) allow for access to master key files/charts or b) interface a secure server that stores said files/charts?

Nearly every locksmith company stores files/charts to master key systems of their clients in one way or another. It's nearly ALL physical copies. You could streamline a lot of locksmith's daily habits by allowing them access to their files instead of having to call in and asking someone to reference the charts for them or fumble through folders to find it themselves. A few mobile locksmiths keep their charts with them - which represents a security risk if their truck was stolen. I've always wanted to create an electronic repository for my companies' files/charts so that we can make our techs more efficient. Fire up a netbook/smart phone, go to the files, access and edit as needed, and effectively reduce a 10 minute ordeal into just a few minutes, max.