Eight new add-ons are set to give Google Docs and Google Sheets for Android a much-needed boost in efficiency. Google has teamed up with third-party developers to spiffy up its suite of productivity apps for mobile users.
The internet company, which has forayed into app development, introduced the add-ons from integration partners on Thursday.
"Whether it's readying a contract you have for e-signature from your phone, or pulling in CRM data on your tablet for some quick analysis while waiting for your morning coffee, Android add-ons can help you accomplish more," writes Saurabh Gupta, Google Apps product manager, on the official Google Docs blog.
The move is a response to the stiff competition between Microsoft and Google in the productivity tools market. For Google, Docs and Sheets for Android serve as two of the company's flagship products in bringing a level of efficiency to the mobile platform. Here are the eight new add-ons for Docs and Sheets for Android.
1. DocuSign
Digital transactions and electronic signatures can be managed through DocuSign. Users can affix their signatures on digital documents or send out the files for others to sign. Among the most common documents used with DocuSign are financial and lease agreements, sales contracts and waivers.
2. PandaDoc
Similar to DocuSign, PandaDoc allows users to digitally sign electronic files in a "secure and legally binding" format. The add-on enables the typing, inscribing or uploading of signatures.
3. Scanbot
Documents, barcodes and QR codes can be scanned quickly using the free mobile app Scanbot, which deploys an automatic document detection system. The scanned doc can be saved as a JPG or PDF file, annonated and uploaded to cloud storage. The add-on can also be upgraded to Scanbot Pro to extract text from the images captured.
4. Zoho CRM
Zoho CRM assists salespeople in connecting with customers. The app provides Dashboards that present insights into key sales metrics and trends. Users can easily access or modify customer info even when offline and sync it automatically once online.
5. AppSheet
Data from Google Sheets, Smartsheets and Excel can be presented in a visual way using AppSheet. The tool is especially useful in managing projects since it allows for notetaking, content display and workflow monitoring.
6. EasyBib
The citation generator EasyBib instantly creates APA, MLA and Chicago-style citations straight from a mobile device. The app is guaranteed to be accurate because it is checked by academics and librarians. Users can readily export their citations via email.
7. Teacher Aide
Compatible with Google Classroom, Teacher Aide helps monitor class attendance and assignments, plot seating charts, grade reports and group students.
8. ProsperWorks CRM
By identifying, tracking and optimizing sales leads and opportunities, ProsperWorks promises to "grow your sales." The visual tool can be deployed via Gmail and eliminates manual work thanks to its automatic data entry system.
