What are Asset Tags?
Asset tags are identification tags attached to assets, which can be categorized into two primary types: fixed and movable assets. Fixed assets encompass infrastructure elements like buildings, machinery, and equipment permanently attached to a structure.
On the other hand, movable assets include items like furniture, computers, and equipment that can be relocated without affecting the building’s structure.
TL;DR
Asset tags are identification labels used for tracking assets, including fixed and movable items in various industries.
They are crucial for efficient asset management, automating documentation, collecting data, automating maintenance, and enhancing security.
Asset tags come in various types, such as QR codes, barcodes, RFID, and BLE tags, each suited to specific needs and environments.
Why are they Important?
Asset tags serve as the linchpin of effective asset tracking systems, offering numerous benefits across industries. For fixed assets, they automate documentation, collect data on asset utilization, automate maintenance schedules, and track repairs.
For movable assets, especially those shared among departments, asset ID tags help prevent loss and theft, enhancing control and security.
Different Types of Asset Tags
Asset tags come in a variety of types, each tailored to specific needs. Some examples include:
- QR Asset Tags: Quick to scan and capable of holding extensive asset information, these tags are suitable for a wide range of assets, including construction tools and equipment.
- Barcode Asset Tags: Featuring vertical lines of varying widths, these tags are cost-effective and easy to use, especially when paired with smartphone apps. However, they are one-dimensional and require a direct line of sight for scanning.
- RFID Asset Tags: Utilizing radio-frequency identification technology, these tags are highly versatile. They store large amounts of asset information, are not line-of-sight dependent, and provide secure data transmission, making them ideal for indoor asset tracking.
- BLE Asset Tags: Bluetooth Low Energy tags are energy-efficient, offering continuous and real-time asset tracking. They are particularly suitable for assets in motion, thanks to their ability to transmit data to receivers.
How to Implement Asset Tags?
Implementing asset tags involves several best practices:
- Ensure all critical assets are tagged to provide essential information about them.
- Store relevant asset information on the tags, such as identification numbers, departments, maintenance details, and location.
- Select the appropriate tag type based on your environment, considering factors like weather resistance and durability.
- Choose asset tagging technology, such as barcodes, QR codes, RFID, or BLE, depending on your budget and requirements.
- Use asset management software to simplify and automate asset tracking, which enhances efficiency and provides valuable analytics.
Real-Time Benefits of Asset Tags
Asset tags offer several real-time advantages:
- Real-Time Management: Asset management software, coupled with asset tags, provides up-to-date data and eliminates duplication in the system, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Opportunities to Upgrade: Cloud-based asset tracking systems enable scalability, accommodating the organization’s growth and changing asset management needs.
- Low Administrative Costs: Automated asset tracking reduces the time spent searching for equipment, boosting staff productivity and reducing administrative costs.
- Theft Prevention: Asset tags act as deterrents to theft when potential perpetrators see traceable assets.
- Monitoring Maintenance: Asset tags assist in automating maintenance schedules, ensuring timely servicing and preventing project delays.