This paper assesses the planning and implementation of hand-held software applications that are enabled in the field by way of mobile phones.

The software applications and accompanying mobile phone enabled computing whose uptake is a central focus of this paper, were introduced to the Asset Management Division of the City of Greater Dandenong, Melbourne, Australia.

This system was specifically designed by a third party software developer to improve data entry quality and enhance productivity. The client ultimately seeks to cultivate best practice in public maintenance works.

The immediate aim is to improve job allocation and job dispatchment by planning staff and job notification and closure by site operatives and crew members.

The expected immediate benefits include improved data quality, avoidance of double data entry and efficient communication between the field and office. The overall expected benefits include a shift from reactive to proactive maintenance.

Results indicate that peer introduction is an effective way of learning and managing change during the adoption process.