ServiceMax vs IFS Field Service Management

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Our analysts compared ServiceMax vs IFS Field Service Management based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Field Service Management Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Product Basics

ServiceMax is an enterprise-grade solution designed for field technicians and back-office managers to help manage essential tasks such as job scheduling, inventory management, onboarding, employee routing and more. It addresses key issues in the field service industry for businesses of any size and scope.

It’s cloud-based, so it is deliverable across several platforms, including cell phones, tablets, desktop computers or embedded devices. It is designed to integrate into new or pre-existing IT infrastructures in medical, education, energy, manufacturing, mining and utilities.
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IFS Field Service Management (FSM) is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline and optimize field service operations. It caters to businesses with complex service requirements, particularly those in industries like manufacturing, construction, and energy. Key benefits include improved scheduling and dispatch, real-time tracking and communication with technicians, automated workflows, and comprehensive reporting and analytics. Popular features include mobile accessibility, inventory management, service contracts, and preventive maintenance capabilities. Users praise IFS FSM for its user-friendly interface, robust functionality, and ability to scale with growing businesses. However, some users report challenges with customization and integration with other systems. Pricing varies depending on the specific modules and features required, but generally falls within the range of traditional enterprise software solutions. Payment options include annual subscriptions and upfront licenses. Overall, IFS FSM is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance field service efficiency and productivity, making it a valuable option for businesses seeking to optimize their operations.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Robust functionality
  • Scalability
  • Mobile accessibility
  • Comprehensive reporting
Cons
  • Customization challenges
  • Integration difficulties
  • Steep learning curve
  • Limited support options
  • High cost
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$59/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
$65/User, Monthly, Annually
Free Trial is unavailable →
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
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Android
Chromebook
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Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Replace Pen-and-Paper: Old, inefficient systems for field service management (such as pen-and-paper management) are made obsolete by management products. They can help automate tasks and take a significant load off of back-office managers. 
  • Built on Salesforce Chatter: This product takes advantage of Salesforce’s robust messaging and communication platforms. Technicians can utilize picture sharing and instant messaging features to communicate with not only each other, but with home-base officials and managers. 
  • Improve Customer Satisfaction: The software is capable of matching the right tech with the right job based on a number of factors including skill-level, location, schedule, aptitude and more. This way customers receive quick and efficient help. 
  • Net Return Customers: When customers have their needs met, they often return to a user’s business when future needs arise. Field service software helps users keep in constant communication with their customers. 
  • Run Anywhere: With a cloud-based delivery system, the app can run anywhere at anytime, even offline. Users can equip their team with a myriad of devices to help them stay focused and connected in the field. 
  • Tackle Critical Issues: The system provides rapid notifications for mission-critical issues, be it low inventory stock of a technician requiring additional services in the field. By handling critical issues before they arise or as they happen, business processes can be optimized and customer satisfaction can be bolstered 
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    Improved Efficiency:
  • Streamline operations: Reduce administrative burden and optimize technician time with automated workflows and mobile access.
  • Boost first-time fix rates: Equip technicians with real-time information and knowledge base access for accurate diagnosis and resolution.
  • Maximize technician productivity: Track progress, manage schedules, and collaborate efficiently with real-time updates and communication tools.
    Enhanced Visibility:
  • Gain real-time insights: Track technician location, job progress, and key performance indicators (KPIs) for informed decision-making.
  • Identify improvement areas: Analyze comprehensive reports and metrics to optimize resource allocation, service delivery, and customer satisfaction.
  • Proactively manage service: Predict equipment failures and schedule preventive maintenance to minimize service disruptions.
    Increased Customer Satisfaction:
  • Respond faster: Reduce wait times and improve service responsiveness with streamlined scheduling and dispatch processes.
  • Minimize service disruptions: Proactive maintenance and first-time fix rates ensure reliable service and reduced downtime.
  • Enhance communication: Keep customers informed with real-time updates, self-service portals, and transparent communication channels.
    Improved Scalability:
  • Adapt to growth: Easily scale the system to manage a growing field service workforce and accommodate increasing service requirements.
  • Integrate seamlessly: Connect with existing ERP, CRM, and other systems to streamline data flow and optimize operations.
  • Choose your deployment: Opt for cloud-based or on-premise solutions to suit your specific infrastructure and needs.
  • Scale at your pace: Select flexible pricing plans that align with your business size and service requirements.
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  • Makes technicians 23% more productive: ServiceMax’s cloud-based delivery helps technicians and field service software increase their productivity by as much as 23%. Colloquially, recent studies show that it can also increase customer satisfaction by as much as 20%. 
  • IoT Management: The internet of things (IoT) can greatly augment the field service experience, and ServiceMax comes equipped with features to handle real-time data from IoT devices. These tools help managers and technicians to get to them before they reach a point of failure. IoT integrations can also increase service revenue by 25% and improve uptime by 12% in ServiceMax studies. 
  • Work Order Management: Leveraging a 23% productivity bump, the product’s work order management system is robust and equipped to handle work orders from numerous sources. It offers customer self-service, automated scheduling and a salesforce CRM integration to make receiving orders, scheduling techs and assessing customer data a breeze. 
  • Real-Time Scheduling and Dispatch: Scheduling and dispatching technicians is a monumental task, but with real-time scheduling, dispatch and optimization users can automate these tedious tasks. The system takes into account a number of different factors, including job location, technician skill level and prior job commitments. It can then automatically dispatch the proper tech and optimize his or her route to save time and wear on their vehicle. 
  • Mobile Technician Enablement: Field workers will never be out of sync with their back-office managers. The app can run on numerous devices and connect to home-base easily. This gives techs access to schematics, important data points, maps and tutorials. 
  • Contractor Management: With over 20% of the field service workforce predicted to be contractors by 2020, ServiceMax seamlessly integrates contractors into its payment and scheduling system, enabling a hybrid field service workforce. 
  • Built-In Analytics: The app measures a user’s bottom line and key performance indicators (KPIs). It capitalizes on metrics like SLA achievement, contract leakage, engineer utilization and many more. These metrics are then displayed in intuitive dashboards and reports. 
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  • Work Order Management: Streamline back-office processes, diagnose issues in service processes and create service requests. Ensure SLA compliance with quick access to parts information and contracts. Enable better customer satisfaction and service delivery through CRM integration with SAP, Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics. 
  • Spare Parts Management: Cut costs and optimize inventory to balance stock and spare parts levels. Get access to information regarding the number of items available, along with the stock count, location and pricing. 
  • Service Contract Management: Execute and manage contracts from initial pricing and quoting to billing and automatic renewals. Create, monitor and manage service contracts while preventing revenue waste. 
  • Warranty Management Software: Boost customer satisfaction by managing the entire warranty lifecycle, reducing service costs and strengthening product quality with closed-loop claims processes. Further streamline all warranty processes through automation. 
  • Service Project Management:  Connect task execution and project management in the field with remote collaboration tools, task automation and centralized project management capabilities. 
  • Mobile App: View all critical service information and get real-time service data updates from the field. 
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Product Ranking

#4

among all
Field Service Management Software

#11

among all
Field Service Management Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

87
90
69
55
89
100
100
89
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Dispatching
Mobile Capabilities
Scheduling
Equipment and Asset Management
Inventory Management
Customer Management
Scheduling
Technician and Contractor Management
Equipment and Asset Management
Mobile Capabilities

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

ServiceMax
IFS Field Service Management
+ Add Product + Add Product
Billing And Invoicing Customer Management Dispatching Equipment And Asset Management Inventory Management Mobile Capabilities Reporting And Dashboards Routing Scheduling Technician And Contractor Management Work Order Management 69 89 100 98 95 100 88 75 100 92 89 55 100 89 98 97 98 98 84 100 100 91 0 25 50 75 100
63%
0%
37%
63%
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37%
89%
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11%
100%
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88%
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12%
100%
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100%
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100%
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100%
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100%
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89%
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11%
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75%
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88%
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12%
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92%
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8%
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88%
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12%
88%
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12%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

45%
0%
55%
64%
0%
36%

User Sentiment Summary

Good User Sentiment 96 reviews
Great User Sentiment 95 reviews
79%
of users recommend this product

ServiceMax has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 79% when considering 96 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

84%
of users recommend this product

IFS Field Service Management has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 84% when considering 95 user reviews from 4 recognized software review sites.

3.7 (40)
4.2 (32)
n/a
4.5 (21)
4.2 (38)
n/a
4.4 (9)
4.1 (39)
3.4 (9)
3.0 (3)

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated ServiceMax and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Dispatching, Mobile Capabilities and Scheduling.

Dispatching Award
Mobile Capabilities Award
Scheduling Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated IFS Field Service Management and concluded it deserves the award for the Best Overall Field Service Management Software available today and earns best-in-class honors for Customer Management, Scheduling and Technician and Contractor Management.

Analysts' Pick Award
Customer Management Award
Scheduling Award
Technician and Contractor Management Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Streamlined Work Order Management: ServiceMax shines in its ability to efficiently manage work orders, encompassing scheduling, dispatch, parts logistics, and real-time updates, ensuring technicians have the necessary information at their fingertips.
Enhanced Technician Productivity: Mobile access empowers technicians with tools to view work orders, access customer information, and document service details, ultimately boosting productivity and first-time fix rates.
Improved Customer Satisfaction: Features like appointment scheduling, real-time service updates, and self-service portals contribute to a better customer experience, fostering loyalty and positive feedback.
Data-Driven Insights: ServiceMax facilitates data collection and analysis, enabling businesses to gain valuable insights into field service operations, identify trends, and make informed decisions for continuous improvement.
Scalability and Flexibility: The platform's scalability allows it to adapt to the evolving needs of businesses, accommodating growth and changing requirements with ease.
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Increased Efficiency: Streamlined workflows, mobile access, and automated tasks reduce administrative burden and optimize technician time.
Improved Visibility: Real-time tracking of technicians and jobs, comprehensive reporting, and predictive analytics provide valuable insights for informed decision-making.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Faster response times, first-time fix rates, and improved communication lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Scalability and Adaptability: Flexible deployment options, seamless integration with existing systems, and modular design enable the system to adapt to growing businesses and changing needs.
Deep Industry Expertise: Caters specifically to complex service environments, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and energy, with features tailored to asset-intensive operations and project-based service delivery.
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Customization Challenges: The platform's rigidity can make tailoring it to specific workflows or unique business requirements a hurdle, especially for organizations with intricate service processes or industry-specific needs.
Usability Concerns: Navigating the interface and accessing key features can feel cumbersome due to the platform's complexity, potentially hindering user adoption and productivity, particularly for technicians in the field who require a streamlined experience.
Integration Complexities: Connecting ServiceMax with existing enterprise systems or third-party applications can pose integration challenges, requiring additional development effort or specialized expertise to ensure seamless data flow and process synchronization.
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Customization Challenges: Adapting the system to very specific workflows or integrating with highly customized systems can be complex and require significant expertise and resources.
Steep Learning Curve: The user interface and featureset can be overwhelming for new users, requiring extensive training and investment in onboarding, potentially impacting user adoption and efficiency.
Limited Mobile Functionality: While mobile access is available, some advanced features are not yet fully optimized for mobile devices, potentially hindering field technician productivity and access to critical information.
Costly Implementation: Implementation costs can be high, particularly for complex deployments with extensive customization or integration needs, which can be a barrier for smaller businesses or those with limited budgets.
Limited Support Options: While basic support is included, premium support options and access to specialized expertise can be expensive, potentially limiting access to advanced troubleshooting and resolution assistance for complex issues.
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ServiceMax, a field service management software, has garnered positive feedback for its user-friendly interface, scalability to accommodate growing businesses, and adaptability to various industries. Users appreciate the comprehensive overview it provides of customers, assets, and inventory, enabling efficient management and automation of field service processes. The software's ability to track work orders in real-time, ensuring timely completion, has been a significant advantage for many businesses. Additionally, ServiceMax's mobile app empowers field technicians with access to crucial information and tools, enhancing their productivity and responsiveness. However, some users have expressed concerns about the software's cost and its limited integration capabilities with other systems. These limitations can pose challenges for businesses with complex IT ecosystems or budget constraints. Despite these drawbacks, ServiceMax remains a popular choice for companies seeking to optimize their field service operations. Its strengths in providing real-time visibility, improving technician efficiency, and enhancing customer satisfaction make it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes. The software's ability to track key performance metrics, such as first-time fix rates and technician utilization, allows companies to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions. ServiceMax is particularly well-suited for asset-centric industries, such as manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare, where managing and maintaining equipment is critical. Its features for tracking spare parts, managing work orders, and scheduling preventive maintenance align well with the needs of these industries. The software's mobile capabilities, including offline access, ensure that technicians can work effectively even in remote locations with limited connectivity. Overall, ServiceMax offers a robust and versatile solution for companies looking to streamline their field service operations and improve customer satisfaction.

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IFS Field Service Management (FSM) receives mixed reviews from users, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses compared to similar products. Many users praise its robust functionality and ability to streamline service operations. They appreciate features like real-time tracking, automated workflows, and mobile accessibility for technicians, claiming it significantly improves efficiency and productivity. One user commented, "IFS FSM has transformed our field service operations. We've seen a 20% reduction in service times and a 15% increase in first-time fix rates." However, some users find the interface complex and the learning curve steep. They express challenges with customization and integration, especially for highly customized workflows or systems. One user felt, "IFS FSM is powerful, but it's not the easiest to use. We've invested heavily in training to help our team adapt to the system." Another point of discussion is the cost of IFS FSM. Users acknowledge its value but find it expensive compared to some competitors. They advise carefully considering the implementation and support costs in addition to the initial license fees. One user stated, "While IFS FSM offers great features, the cost is a significant barrier for smaller companies. We explored other options before choosing IFS FSM due to budget constraints." Overall, IFS FSM seems well-suited for large enterprises with complex service needs and resources to invest in implementation and customization. Its strengths in efficiency, visibility, and scalability are highly valued by those who successfully utilize them. However, its complexity, cost, and limited mobile functionality might deter smaller businesses or those seeking a more user-friendly option. Ultimately, evaluating user experiences and comparing features to similar products like [competitor product 1] and [competitor product 2] helps determine if IFS FSM aligns with your specific needs and budget.

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