Personal Digital Assistants (or "PDAs") have been around for may years and are used by millions of consumers throughout the world. Probably the leading International brand for these handy little units is Palm Inc. who supply a range of handheld computer products capable of servicing both the domestic and business market. Much software exists to support the Palm PDAs although most come with useful software already hard-coded in the application. This usually includes a calculator, an alarm and memo reminder and many also include a basic camera function and voice recording facility.
Innovative Palm software has now been developed over a number of years by a leading UK driving school and has been made available especially for use by forward-thinking self-employed driving instructors to enhance their own business. This software - effectively, an appointment diary with comprehensive administrative facilities - enables instructors to monitor and record their pupils' progress and maintains an accurate and up-to-date account of all money, appointments and lesson scores. The software provides a reliable and permanent record of lesson times and durations as well as all keeping track of all products sold. At the end of each working day the instructor will synchronise their Palm with their website, office or main booking centre to update their records, minimizing the possibility of double bookings, and offering an complete and efficient service to both pupil and instructor.
The Palm computer is often combined with a small handheld printer for maximum effect, providing hard-copy receipts and lesson summaries. As well as reducing the likelihood of error or misunderstanding with their customers, each lesson is scored against an established syllabus and the results achieved can then be used by pupils to guide any practice they may be able to get over and above the driving lessons they have with their instructor.