How Tracker Management Systems Work for Equipment Tracking

The construction industry generates about $1.4 trillion per year in the US alone, employing more than seven million people across 733,000 enterprises. Yet, according to a survey conducted in 2022, out of the many challenges faced by contractors, 40% admitted to their projects being delayed, postponed, or canceled.

Not only this, but many experience disruptions in supply and demand, technological faults, and inaccurate reports on material costs and availability, adding to already high financial risks.

Such problems can be tackled through Clue's efficient and flexible tracker management systems, designed specifically for contractors. These systems provide all your data and software under one glass pane, so you can now improve your work progress and track your assets without any hassle! 

Let's walk you through the dynamics of a tracker management system.

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What are tracker management systems?

It is an asset management tracking system that allows you to record your physical assets, manage your fleet vehicles, and easily monitor all your equipment regarding  time usage, updates, and inventory. 

Clue aims to provide all this information with real-time location updates and maintenance status and pinpoint any necessary damages or replacements. There are mainly two ways in which our app tracks and manages your assets,

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OEM Telematics

OEM Telematics is a built-in technology that monitors your vehicle and assets remotely and keeps track of management through real-time data. Acquiring data from the engine regarding fault codes and fuel consumption, reporting idling, and preventing equipment failure through instant alerts on your app is essential. This data is then sent to the user's cloud for storage and further analysis.

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GPS

Clue provides you with the feasibility of partnering with your GPS providers by linking your machinery, equipment, and assets to deliver information on the number of hours worked, distance covered, speed, and, of course, real-time location.

‍GPS tracks and moves, ensures comprehensive knowledge of all your assets, and prevents future delays/errors.

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Barcodes

Your asset tracking and management system will be able to work flawlessly with the help of barcode labels. These barcodes allow you to track non-powered physical assets (tools, documents, inventory, etc.) and other equipment like vehicles, computers, servers, and heavy machinery.

The data stored on your server is assigned to a unique barcode printed on your assets, allowing you to extract information regarding location, quantity, maintenance schedules, and end-of-life cycles.

With the help of Clue's tracker management systems, you can view this data whenever you like, review it, and take action.

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RFID

Radio Frequency Identification tags are also a form of barcodes, but they are smarter electronic devices that utilize radio frequency technology to transmit instant information through live tracking.

They are considered the most advanced option due to their long range. According to Bill Hardgrave, dean of Auburn University's Harbert College of Business,

"RFID increases inventory accuracy, from an average of 65 percent to more than 95 percent."

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How do tracker management systems work?

At Clue, we ensure our partners receive all sorts of information and data regarding their assets under one glass pane. The state-of-the-art technology and software integrated into our app allow you to link different types of equipment, saving you a lot of time, energy, and money!

Let's examine how our tracker management systems make your job much easier!

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Equipment, assets, and fleet management

You need maximum output for all your investments, and for that, you need a smart fleet management tracking system that can calculate the number of hours worked, upcoming projects, and maintenance schedules on bulldozers, cranes, loaders, etc. 

GPS and OEM telematics ensure that you are constantly engaged with your equipment. API software allows you to link four different providers, such as Cat, Volvo, Ford, and a GPS provider, to get all the data simultaneously.

Other small parts, such as tools or machinery essentials, can be tracked through Bluetooth, RFID tags, barcodes, and cellular GPS tracker energy beacons. 

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Maintenance and utilization reports

Clue's tracker management systems provide users with highlighted issues, maintenance reports, checking asset life cycles, and reliable data co-linked in clutter-free diagnostics /reports. They also provide real-time alerts and equipment utilization updates, so you never have to deal with any delays!

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Fuel, inventory, and construction management

With live monitoring 24/7, Clue's software tools track your fuel and whether it is being exhausted at an abnormal rate or stolen.

The check-in and check-out feature allows you to track the tools being used during construction, the ones running out, and the ones that need repairs with one tap. 

Whenever a problem occurs, team members are notified through the tracker management system, allowing them to act immediately.

The inventory management and tracking system reduces overstock and excess equipment, analyzes according to demand, and ensures assets are present where needed.

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Manage dispatches, rentals, and analysis reports.

The tracker management system provides clear records in the form of log reports that allow you to complete an analysis of what equipment is being used, when, by whom, and for how long.

Monitor your machinery by tracking its underperformance, activity, breakdown issues, and usability reports. Clue aims to provide accurate information so you can time your projects, dispatch, and manage rentals without hassle or wasting time.

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Challenges faced by contractors without tracker management systems:

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Lots of paperwork

An abundance of assets means an abundance of paperwork, which leads to numerous hours of manpower consumption that could quickly be resolved in seconds through Clue's tracker management system.

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Keeping track of maintenance schedules and inventory

Many contractors face delays and cancellations when one of their machines stops working or some parts go missing. Such situations can take many days, weeks, or even months, costing the contractor numerous losses.

It is also hard to figure out if some items are being stolen or misused.

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Poor knowledge of equipment, assets, and fleets

The contractor must be aware if fuel consumption is occurring unnecessarily or if a machine is sitting idle, wasting time. They are also unable to fill in, or order needed parts and even face excess inventory, yielding more costs.

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No track of employee check-ins or check-outs

There are many events where assets are often misplaced or stolen, so monitoring the check-in and check-out of every employee is a must. When a piece of machinery is damaged or stops working due to unknown reasons, the contractor has no proof of who was using it and cannot hold anyone accountable or get a report on the root of the issue.

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How can a tracker management system be helpful to a contractor?

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Cost and time-saving 

When a contractor is aware of its fleet's whereabouts, the fuel consumption of its machines, and the movement of its tools and employees, it can save them a lot of time and money.

Not only will the cost go down, but you will be able to get the job done without spending much time, leading to a satisfied customer.

Darrin Sheriff says, "We've saved over $1 million in the first year alone using Clue." He also states that his work efficiency has increased over time, allowing his team to provide six services a day instead of only two.

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Keep an eye on your workers/employees.

How long will you know what equipment/fleet is used by which individual?

You can utilize the tool management system by explaining how it works to your employees, acknowledging the consequences of their actions, and issuing rewards or fines for the employee responsible. 

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Reduction in customer complaints

You can always show your customers the detailed reports and analysis provided by Clue to ensure their reliability and proper workflow.

The reports provided by the tracker management systems will allow you to deliver the project on time, allowing you to build rapport with your customers.

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Receive updates and reminders regarding maintenance and software.

With the need for manual inputs, there will be little space left for human errors! With GPS location and barcode scanners, you will be notified if something needs a repair or if a machine has reached the end of its life cycle. You will also be able to update your software promptly.

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Get a Clue!

If you want to upgrade your business and bring some leverage into your work, Clue is the right option. The tracker management system is the best way to cut costs and not corners, keep track of all your assets, and manage your workforce all under one screen.

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FAQs

How many types of tracking systems can we use?

Here are the main types:

1. GPS Tracking: This system uses satellites to provide real-time location data. It's highly effective for monitoring equipment movement and managing logistics.
2. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Beacons: BLE beacons are ideal for tracking assets within a confined area. They emit signals that can be picked up by nearby devices, providing precise location information.
3. RFID: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags attached to objects automatically. This technology is great for inventory management and asset tracking in warehouses.
4. QR Codes: Quick Response (QR) codes can be scanned to retrieve information about an asset quickly. They are simple to implement and valuable for static asset tracking where real-time updates are unnecessary.

Each of these systems has its strengths and can be chosen based on your specific tracking needs, whether you require real-time updates, precise indoor tracking, or a cost-effective solution for inventory management.​​

What is the number of assets/ equipment that the system can trace?

You can link as many assets/equipment as you like, and they can all be linked under Clue's umbrella.

What is the checklist feature, and why is it important?

These features are crucial for several reasons:

1. Enhanced Accuracy: Checklists minimize the risk of overlooking critical steps, which can lead to errors or omissions.
2. Consistency: They help standardize procedures, ensuring that every team member follows the same process, leading to uniformity in task execution.
3. Efficiency: By outlining each step, checklists streamline workflows, saving time and reducing the cognitive load on employees.
4. Accountability: Checklists record completed tasks, which helps track progress and auditing purposes.
5. Safety and Compliance: They ensure that safety protocols and regulatory requirements are met, reducing the risk of accidents and legal issues​​.

Can the tracker management system record tools/materials (non-powered equipment)?

Yes, barcodes and RFID tags can give real-time data on your equipment's location and whereabouts, increasing inventory accuracy.