Asset Tracking Software

Businesses in all areas can benefit from asset tracking software to track and manage equipment through a bar coded system or a network. Some of these products are designed to help inventory any type of asset while others are designed specifically for tracking technology use or misuse and even problems. There are many options out there which could make the search for the right program a little overwhelming. The business manager will need to begin the search by determining what his company's exact needs are and why exactly he needs the product. Then he can filter through different products, comparing prices, compatibility, navigability, and quality. Only though this detailed search process can the business manager make a wise choice regarding equipment tracking software.

Business managers cannot purchase asset tracking software without first considering the company's need for the product. First, they need to choose between the two different types: bar coded tracking systems and network systems. Bar code software typically comes with a scanner and printer. The inventory taker or scanner creates bar codes for each asset as a form of identification. The printer prints bar code labels to be placed on each item. The scanner device holds all of the information about the item, making it simple to look at its history, location, and any other information about the item. These systems are great for companies that are tracking mostly non-technical assets. A network system, on the other hand, is completely computer-based and mainly meant to monitor IT assets. The software is connected to several computers on the network and can detect problems and notify the primary user. These systems are often used by information technology departments in many businesses and government entities.

"In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble" (Proverbs 15:6). Equipment tracking software helps many businesses truly see where their treasures lie. Despite the many good reasons for taking inventory, many businesses don't do it and can pay the price. If the IRS comes sniffing around and no inventory is available, there could be trouble. This is why tracking programs can be such a great investment. However, investment or not, it's still important to look at the business budget to determine what the most affordable product price range would be. Depending on the number of assets and the type of system, prices can range from $800 to nearly $10,000. These prices usually apply to software licensed out directly to the consumer and sold through the manufacturer. Much more inexpensive options are available at local electronics stores. However, these products may not include some of the more sophisticated features that manufacturer-sold products include such as quality customer service or unlimited warranties.

Compatibility can make or break an asset tracking software purchase because the computer program has to work on the company's system. Managers will need to know the specifications of the business computers, especially if the software will be used on more than one computer. Information such as type of processor, hardware such as a CD-ROM, and available hard drive space is very important. Compare these numbers to the system requirements listed with the product description. If the manufacturer's websites doesn't give system requirements, it's best to make contact as soon as possible to get such information. After finding a match between the business system and the requirements, the customer can then look at online demos and tours of the product. A test drive of the product will show the customer how easy it is to use. A solid product will have easy to understand icons and commands that one can find with little to no assistance. Nonetheless, business owners who will have several employees using the product may want to see what training or seminars are available to customers.

Quality and excellent customer service are list last here but are by no means the least important. Choosing the very best equipment tracking software may not be an easy task, but it is certainly worth the trouble. Unfortunately, some people try to save money by purchasing cheap computer programs to manage assets. The result is glitches, lost information, locked up computers, or, worst of all, an entire inventory and all that work completely gone. Customers can avoid these problems by taking the advice of those who have already been there. Asking other professionals in the same arena how they track equipment can save a lot of time and aggravation. Recommendations can give customers peace of mind when it comes to making the software purchase. Online reviews and comments are also helpful. By looking at generic websites that review many products, the customer can get an idea of both the good and the bad that come with a particular product. Pay close attention to negative feedback, especially if it has to do with loss of data or poor customer service. Checking on the manufacturer's customer service quality is also a major factor. Call and speak with a representative before making the purchase.

Companies all over the country use asset tracking software to manage company equipment and inventory to make business management a little smoother. Although such computer programs can be a hefty investment, many are well worth the price. Large companies can't afford not to track equipment, especially if a large number of employees and an unsecured building make the possibility of theft very real. Other companies need these products to be sure that employees are using computer equipment properly. Some programs will actually monitor usage of computers and notify the software user that an employee is using banned computer programs or unlicensed software. Other programs will combine inventory with maintenance requests and purchasing features. All of these are great reasons to look into purchasing equipment tracking software. By focusing on price, compatibility, navigability, and quality, business managers can feel confident about making the right purchase.

Add to: File Insurance Business article Teen Photo Images