Fixed Asset Inventory Using RFID

There are many advantages of using RFID for inventorying assets vs using manual and barcode processes.  The main advantages we have identified are… 

RFID Reads Multiple Tags At Once 
Manual inventory processes require individually matching an Asset’s tag number or serial number to a number in a spreadsheet or report.  This is very time consuming and often leads to inaccuracies in reporting.  Barcode inventory processes are more accurate, however, they still require assets to be scanned individually at at close range, so although it is faster than a manual process it is still a long process.  RFID inventories, once implemented, use a handheld scanner and can read 20 or more tags each second, simultaneously.  This translates into faster inventories and more accurate results. 

No Line-of-Sight Required For RFID 
Manual and barcode processes require tags to be physically located and visible.  With RFID you can read tags that are not visible to the eye.  As long as they are within the range of the handheld, there is no need to physically locate the asset.  This is helpful when you have tags on assets that are up under a desk or table. With manual processes, you would have to crawl up under to find and locate the tag.  There are exceptions to this rule, especially when the tag is being blocked by metal or liquid, but as long as there no interference, the tags can be scanned, found, and you can move on to another location in your building. 

Process Improvement 
When you are using manual and barcode process to inventory assets, you often have to pull employees from their normal responsibilities for a time-consuming task.  Often these employees are over-qualified and over-paid for this job.  This can affect your bottom line.  RFID-based asset inventories dramatically reduce the man-power that is required for tracking your assets.  It can also provides more visibility for your assets because inventories can be done more frequently.