Asset tracking has become a prime use case for Bluetooth beacon technology in recent years. Attaching beacons to high-value items provides businesses with real-time visibility and insights into equipment location and usage. However, to maximize the benefits of a beacon-based asset tracking solution, following key strategies for deployment is crucial.
Conduct Thorough Inventory Auditing
The first step is auditing all physical assets and inventory across facilities that need to be tracked. This provides key data points for configuring the solution. Compile details like asset names, ID numbers, storage locations, movement patterns, and department ownership. Prioritize mission-critical assets for initial beacon tagging.
Select Ruggedized Beacon Hardware
Since assets may be moved regularly and exposed to environmental conditions, rugged beacon models with high durability are essential. Look for robust housing, wide temperature operation range, and water/particle resistance based on use cases. Long battery life up to 5 years reduces maintenance needs. Pick a form factor suitable for attachment.
Design a Site Survey Approach
To determine optimal beacon density and placement, perform a site survey of each facility. Note areas of high metal or liquid interference. Identify positioning principles leveraging entry/exit points and asset movement flows. A phased rollout approach lets you refine based on early learnings before full deployment.
Develop Mobile App and Backend Integration
A companion mobile app detects asset-tagged beacons and provides intuitive visibility into real-time locations. Integrate asset data points from the app with inventory management systems, ERP platforms, analytics tools and other backend databases to make information actionable. Link beacon analytics with mapping capabilities.
Provide Access Control Mechanisms
Combining beacons with access control allows managing who is authorized to use or move key assets. Integration with access cards or badges lets the system identify employees accessing items. Rules engines can then tailor permissions and alerts accordingly to secure assets.
Implement Beacon Management Solution
A robust management software solution centralizes visibility and control over all beacons across facilities. It enables monitoring device health, remotely changing configurations, updating firmware, conducting analysis, and setting alerts. This streamlines maintenance and optimization.
Train Staff on New Capabilities
Educate employees across departments on using the beacon asset tracking capabilities through the mobile app and integrated systems. Demonstrate how real-time visibility improves departmental workflows and accountability. Proper training ensures adoption and maximizes ROI.
Following these strategies allows enterprises to realize the full advantages of beacons for end-to-end asset management. With improved visibility into equipment location and usage, beacons become a strategic tool for optimizing workflows, utilizing resources efficiently, and securing critical assets.
