Barcoding: It’s Not Just For Retail Anymore

The Big Payoff: Fixed Asset Tracking

While there are countless ways to improve a business with barcodes, one proven strategy can pay off almost immediately with virtually every client you serve. By putting an asset tracking solution in place, companies can save big bucks and create return on investment in a matter of months.

Every business has fixed assets, including computers, smartphones, copiers, tools, equipment, vehicles and more. Your clients spend tens of thousands of dollars buying these items. Yet virtually every day, questions about assets arise, such as the following: Who has that projector? Where are those tools I need? Didn’t we just spend thousands of dollars, and what did we buy with the money?

Most businesses attempt to track their fixed assets with pencil and paper or on a spreadsheet. But when an audit is required to verify what is actually on site, or when a particular asset is needed, days are wasted in an attempt to locate and count items.

In addition, employees push to buy new assets to do their jobs, from PCs and software to equipment and tools. Sometimes, these assets are already owned by the business, but no one has any idea of where the equipment is or if it’s available. Additional purchases may be made, yet later it’s discovered that the company already has more computers, projectors or tools than are needed. That’s money wasted. Unfortunately, theft can also be an issue. At some companies, fixed assets disappear and no one realizes they are gone.

With barcodes and software, companies can see what fixed assets they own at a glance — and where they are. Items can be checked in, checked out and attached to a unique record with a wide range of information including purchase date, location, initial cost, service record and more. Then, when the time comes for an audit, mobile devices can quickly and accurately audit equipment in the office or out in the field to ensure all information is up-to-date.

Don’t get left behind. This 60-year-old technology stalwart is breaking out with new and exciting opportunities, from simple forms to exciting marketing ideas to office efficiency. Each of these strategies represents a new way you can counsel your clients to save time, reduce costs and improve efficiency. These messages and ideas are always welcomed by businesses looking for ways to excel. And best of all, it’s a conversation you can have that expands your role as a trusted advisor to clients looking for additional services and assistance that will positively transform their businesses.

An experienced strategic marketer, Grant Wickes excels at helping technology companies understand market opportunities, develop products and craft marketing programs that drive profitable growth and business value. Wickes’ marketing and sales experience spans more than two decades, the majority of which has been spent growing small technology companies. Currently, Wickes serves as vice president of business development with Wasp Barcode Technologies (www.waspbarcode.com), a leading provider of small business productivity solutions.