I’m trying to gather some good apps to share. Today’s entry comes from an effort from the USDA to streamline monitoring of rural rent controlled apartments. The idea is pretty straightforward – field staff enter their notes directly info an iPad rather than hand write notes in the field and transfer to computer later. But the app requires Internet access to update in real time…

Right now, a specialist inspects the property, takes paper notes and digital photos, and then returns to the office to input all the data – essentially touching all the data twice to get it in our system – before being able to follow up on any necessary repairs that were noted during the servicing visit. We decided there was opportunity to invest a little technology in streamlining this process.

USDA Rural Development is currently field testing an iPad app that allows specialists to directly input photos and data about the properties from the field. Montana Housing Specialist Lea McGiboney is one of the field testers for our new multi-family servicing app, and was able to speak with Velma about her home. During their conversation, Velma noted a problem with her refrigerator and now Canyon Villas has been alerted to the issue and is being given thirty days to fix it. Lea inspected several other units as well as the overall property so she can provide a list of corrective actions to the property owner.

The app helps our field specialists like Lea do their jobs more efficiently, and that allows us to serve our customers – like Velma – better. Without affordable living options like Canyon Villas, folks like Velma would have to leave the rural communities they call home. With this new servicing app, USDA Rural Development will ensure properties provide the safe and sanitary housing for the communities they serve, better service for our customers, and save time and taxpayer resources in the process.