Thanks for the feedback Warren. Everything is trending toward cloud based because of the convenience to access your files across any device. We are building a web based application so you can access it on your computer, however, it will still be linked with a server. Perhaps we can have some sort of feature in the future so the user can store it on their own hard drive/phone. Do you use services like dropbox.
I use services like dropbox, but really only use it to move large amounts of data, then I delete the data right away.
I work in the IT industry. I sell large storage solutions to large enterprise customers, and my experience is there is a huge lack of regulation in cloud services. I have seen some real garbage out there as cloud solutions are seldom complete without 5 9's availability, they have poor backup / restore processes, and seldom is there an archive solution in place.
My experience is, unless it is a government regulated industry, like health care, where the provider has to meet criteria (HIPPA), then the cloud service is not well designed and prone to failure.
Security is another big issue with private cloud services. It is hard to trust the securities in place in most installations. Even large enterprises have issues with security. IE: SONY.
Your app is great. I really like the idea. I track all maintenance myself, and keeping everything adds value when eventually selling a car. It is a great idea. I would just like to option to store the data myself. Then I can decide where and how long to keep the data.
Maybe one day the DMV will provide a service like this with all the DC regulations and securities in place
I noticed that Honda offers an online maintenance tracker on their web site. It allows all activities, even DIY oil changes to be added. No receipts outside of Honda dealerships, but it is tracked to the car's VIN. (password protected) Like everything though, they will change their website and it very well could be dropped and all your data will be gone. (again another reason to keep the data myself)
My opinion is tarnished because of what I have seen in the IT industry. I sell 5 and 6 9's solutions, and those even have issues because of people and process that are poor and non-regulated. Data Centre Services have a long way to go to become a solid and secure cloud provider industry. It is getting better, as these types of services are becoming more prominent. Maybe one day I will have a better opinion.
I really like the idea of your app providing quick access to records, available from phone, tablet, and PC, all sync'd together, like my personal calendar or my facebook account , but tell me more about your cloud service.