What is asset tracking and why implement it?
It is a strategic approach that allows you to monitor your resources throughout their lifecycle and geolocate the location, status, and performance of each asset in real time, whether they are highly specialized machines or your IT assets. This comprehensive visibility is the foundation for informed decisions, accurate planning, and optimal resource allocation. In short, asset tracking ensures dynamic and proactive asset management, which is essential to your company's agility and competitiveness in today's economy.
What technology is needed for an effective asset tracking system?
RFID (UHF HF / NFC): The key technology
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology uses radio waves to read and capture information stored on a tag attached to an object. With variants such as UHF (Ultra-High Frequency) and NFC (Near Field Communication), we can adapt the tracking range to suit the type of assets and environment. RFID offers flexibility through extremely fast equipment identification. Without direct contact or line of sight, RFID technology allows you to read a large number of objects in a matter of seconds.
1D/2D barcodes: A simple and effective solution
Barcodes/QR codes are another form of identification technology. Although this technology is fully mature and no longer in question, it requires individual scanning and a line of sight, which can increase inventory time and the risk of human error. If you do not want to perform mass scanning but simply identify the information or history of an asset, then barcodes/QR codes are more suitable.
BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy): Real-time location technology
A beacon is a small device measuring a few square centimeters that uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to transmit radio signals at distances of up to several dozen meters at constant intervals. These signals, whose frequency is close to those used in RFID, transmit data that can be received by other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This technology makes it possible to locate objects with an accuracy of a few square meters in confined spaces such as offices, hospitals, or warehouses.
The combination of RFID, Bluetooth BLE, and barcodes/QR codes greatly, if not infinitely, expands the horizons of asset traceability across all industrial sectors.
Key benefits
Investing in a high-performance asset tracking software solution means choosing to put your company on the path to innovation and efficiency. The benefits are numerous and significant:
- Significant cost reduction
An asset tracking solution allows you to minimize losses and theft by providing real-time visibility into the location of assets. It also helps you avoid redundant purchases by providing accurate data on existing inventory. It also allows you to proactively track inventory levels and anticipate replenishment needs, avoiding shortages or overstocking. You can also extend the life of your equipment, delaying costly investments in new equipment.
- Tenfold increase in operational efficiency
With a traceability solution, asset tracking becomes faster and more accurate, freeing up time for your teams to focus on higher value-added tasks. Automating inventory processes eliminates human error and speeds up data collection, enabling decision-making based on up-to-date and reliable information.
- Compliance and risk management made easy
You can rest assured that all asset-related information is recorded consistently and in accordance with applicable standards. This simplifies audits, reduces the risk of non-compliance, and allows for a prompt response in the event of irregularities.
- Optimization of maintenance management
Asset maintenance is another area where traceability software solutions provide significant added value. By being able to manage and schedule preventive and corrective maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns, extend the life of your assets, and ensure that your equipment operates at peak performance.
These benefits highlight that adopting an asset tracking system can lead to significant cost reductions and boost the operational efficiency of the company as a whole.
How to choose the ideal asset tracking solution?
Choosing the right asset tracking solution depends on several factors, such as the specific objectives of the company, the type of assets to be managed, and the resources available. It is advisable to conduct a thorough analysis of your needs and compare the features and costs of different solutions before making a decision.
At Solid Solutions in Identification, we place flexibility, mutual respect, and customer satisfaction at the heart of our priorities. Our approach begins with attentive listening and a thorough assessment of your specific requirements. We are dedicated to developing the most suitable solution, taking into account the particularities of your business to ensure optimal implementation. We provide constant support: we are by your side every step of the way, from initial planning to full operationalization and beyond, to ensure that our solutions fully meet your expectations.
Our asset tracking software solution, SolAsset, is an all-in-one digital solution for accurate real-time tracking of your equipment. Whether for machinery, office furniture, artwork, healthcare equipment, or IT equipment, our platform centralizes inventories, locations, movement histories, maintenance, and more. Easy to use and secure, SolAsset adapts to your asset base, large or small, and can be customized to suit your needs.
