F3 Frontline Workers plug-in

Certain QMS system

The F3 Frontline Workers plug-in is a software extension for Certain QMS, developed specifically for organisations using Microsoft 365 F3 licences.

The Microsoft F3 licence restricts users from opening and working with Office files stored in the quality management system. The Certain QMS plug-in provides a solution that ensures straightforward access to the documents employees need.

The challenge with Microsoft F3 licences

Employees cannot open all file types

F3 licences are designed specifically for employees who work entirely in the cloud. This means that all files they work with are stored in Microsoft’s cloud — either OneDrive or SharePoint.

A problem therefore arises when employees with F3 licences need to open or work with Microsoft files that are not stored in Microsoft’s cloud, but in a specialist system such as Certain QMS.

Certain QMS microsoft F3

Word document in Certain QMS: With a Microsoft F3 licence, users cannot open files stored in the quality management system.

The importance of files in a quality management system

A well-established quality management system loses some of its value when employees are unable to read or work with the files created to maintain quality across the organisation’s deliveries.

The F3 Frontline Workers plug-in ensures that the quality of our product is maintained as organisations transition to cloud-based solutions for their employees.

A real problem:

Employees working in the cloud do not have the software required to open Microsoft files in the quality management system..

About the F3 Frontline Workers plug-in

To ensure that the purpose and functionality of Certain QMS are preserved, we have developed a plug-in that resolves the issues experienced by users with F3 licences.

How it works:

  • Files in Certain QMS are connected to the organisation’s Microsoft cloud.
  • The file format is converted and the user can open the file using one of the Microsoft 365 web or mobile apps.

The workflow in Certain QMS remains unchanged, and the user experiences the whole process as seamless.

What is the Microsoft F3 licence?

Tailored for the organisation's frontline workers

The F3 licence is an affordable and straightforward option designed specifically for employees who work out in the field or deliver services directly to the end customer. Examples include electricians, healthcare workers and customer service staff.

100% cloud-based

  • No software is installed locally on the PC — all files must be opened using Microsoft’s web or mobile apps.
  • Files cannot be saved locally on the PC or outside Microsoft’s cloud.

Are you experiencing similar issues in other IT systems?

We are aware that this challenge applies to many more IT systems than Certain QMS alone.

If your organisation is experiencing similar problems with other specialist systems or management systems, please get in touch. We are happy to provide guidance and solutions to help you move forward.