Auction house Brightwells has “moved away from traditional pen and paper records” with new handheld inspection software.  

Developed by Gain Solutions, the software designed for WiFi enabled handheld devices, allows inspectors to input data, capture images - via the in-app camera - and link digital images to information.

Created by an in-house team of developers, the digital inspection system can be configured to inspect any auction item. Plus, it reduces administration as inspections automatically sync to a central server.

The system may also increase the accuracy and consistency of information collated as inspections are guided through pre-set questions.

Brightwells’ shareholder and auctioneer James Thomas said: “The new app developed by Gain Solutions will considerably improve the accuracy of the information collected.

"It also reduces the time needed for an inspection as the inspector can record the information with a few clicks rather than writing the information down and then passing it to administration to enter into our systems.”

“Additionally, the in-app camera means that images are automatically linked to items recorded in condition reports, so avoiding potential confusion relating to items identified during inspections. This then allows the creation of PDF or data file which can be transferred to the auction sales online platform and catalogues.”

Gain Solutions’ commercial director Marcus Blakemore said: “Currently, Brightwells are using a white label version of our handheld inspection software for inspecting vehicles for their car auctions.

“However, because they are involved in remarketing items from fine wine to earthmovers and heavy plant, they needed a separate solution that would allow them to capture key data and descriptions with images, for condition reports and determine guide prices prior to auction.”