What Is a Tool Management System?
A Tool Management System is a system designed to effectively manage and track tools owned by organizations or companies.
It enables the tracking of detailed information such as tool types, storage locations, and the last date of use, helping prevent loss and unnecessary usage. It also proves beneficial in preventing theft and unauthorized usage.
Moreover, the system efficiently assesses the value of tools, providing an accurate understanding of asset value. It contributes to insurance coverage for tool assets and supports accounting processes.
Uses of Tool Management System
Tool Management Systems find applications in various industries and environments. The following are primary examples of use cases:
1. Construction Industry
In construction sites where numerous tools are utilized, a Tool Management System employs barcode scanners or RFID technology to track usage in real time. This allows for precise identification of tool locations, preventing losses. Real-time inventory tracking also helps in automatically ordering new tools as needed, preventing shortages during construction projects.
2. Manufacturing Industry
The manufacturing industry uses a variety of tools that need accurate tracking as assets. The Tool Management System allows real-time monitoring of asset locations and conditions, enhancing transparency in the manufacturing process. It also optimizes tool maintenance plans and reinforces preventive maintenance.
3. Warehousing and Logistics
In warehouses and logistics centers, it is crucial to accurately understand the condition of heavy machinery assets such as pallet jacks and forklifts. The Tool Management System records the location and usage history of these assets, facilitating proper maintenance planning. It also assists in optimizing the arrangement of tools and machinery, improving logistics efficiency.
4. Laboratories
Laboratories often use expensive experimental equipment and lab tools. Therefore, accurate tracking of these assets and managing them for each research project is essential. The Tool Management System allows monitoring usage patterns and managing reservations and maintenance conditions.
Principles of Tool Management System
A Tool Management System is a system designed to efficiently manage tools and equipment. It records information such as users, usage status, and maintenance history, allowing real-time updates.
The operational principle involves attaching barcode labels or RFID tags to assets like tools. By reading these, assets can be accurately identified, enabling precise tracking of tools.
Without a Tool Management System, situations may arise where the same tool is purchased despite already being available. Introducing a Tool Management System provides visibility on tool availability, leading to cost savings.
Some systems are designed to operate as mobile apps, allowing on-site workers to scan tools and update information. Products that can integrate with software such as order management systems also exist, enabling automation of the ordering process.
How to Choose a Tool Management System
Tool Management Systems vary significantly in functionality among manufacturers, necessitating caution during selection. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a Tool Management System:
1. Identification Method
Different methods exist for identifying tools, such as RFID or barcodes. Barcode scanning is a common and relatively low-cost method. However, RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) allows for contactless reading, providing higher accuracy and a broader reading range. The choice depends on factors like cost and requirements.
2. Operating System Compatibility
Check which operating systems the Tool Management System supports, such as Windows, iOS, or Android. Compatibility with the organization’s existing IT infrastructure is crucial for smooth integration.
3. Scalability
Ensure that the system can be customized to meet the organization’s needs. Products that allow a certain degree of in-house customization often offer better usability. Integration with systems like order management can contribute to data centralization and automation, enhancing efficiency.
4. User-Friendliness
Examine the system’s interface to ensure it is user-friendly. It should enable non-technical users to input information quickly and retrieve necessary data. Verify the support system of the issuing company to ensure effective utilization of the system.