Minimum Version Required: 26.02
Pre-Conditions
Users must be utilizing the Encompass Mobile with version 26.02 or higher.
The mobile device must have Location Services enabled for the Encompass Mobile app with the permission set to "Always all the time" (Android) or "Always" (iOS).
Customer locations must have associated Map Polygons (geofences) defined within the system to trigger events. See How to view or edit a customer's geofence for more information.
User must have an Event for the customer.
Steps
This feature automates the recording of customer visits by tracking when a user enters or leaves a specific customer location. No manual button presses are required for these specific events, provided the device is configured correctly.
1. Open the Encompass Mobile application and ensure you are logged in.
2. The application will automatically download relevant customer geofence data (Map Polygons).
3. The system performs a location check approximately every 5 minutes.
4. When the device location is detected inside a customer's defined Map Polygon, the system automatically creates a **"MerchSync Arrived"** Time Clock Event.
5. When the device location is detected outside the Map Polygon after a visit, the system automatically creates a **"MerchSync Departed"** Time Clock Event.
6. These events are uploaded to the server automatically. This process continues to function even if the application is minimized or the device screen is locked.
Fields And Definitions
MerchSync Arrived: An automated time clock entry recording the timestamp when a user enters a defined customer geofence.
MerchSync Departed: An automated time clock entry recording the timestamp when a user exits a defined customer geofence, or if a user logs off while a 'MerchSync Arrived' event exists for the same customer.
Map Polygon: The virtual geographic boundary drawn around a customer location that defines the area for arrival and departure triggers.
Best Practices
Location Permissions: It is critical to select "Always Allow" for location permissions. Selecting "While Using the App" may prevent the system from recording arrival/departure times if the phone is in your pocket or the screen is off.
App Management: Do not force-close the Encompass Mobile app (swiping up to kill the app process) during the workday. Doing so may terminate the background location service and prevent visit tracking.
Timing Intervals: Because the system checks location in 5-minute intervals to preserve battery life, extremely brief stops (less than 5 minutes) may occasionally not trigger an automated event. Ensure you remain within the geofence for at least one polling cycle for best accuracy.