Internet of Things (IoT) has taken the world by storm and become a key part of nearly every industry in some way. But what is the Internet of Things? IoT is the connection between devices, machines, via the internet. This network across the internet helps make it possible to share data, extract meaningful information, and improve our own day-to-day lives.
One way that IoT has benefited many industries and people is in improving asset tracking. What is IoT tracking? IoT asset tracking is using IoT connected devices to keep track of where assets are located. Anything that already connects to the internet is already a part of the Internet of Things, and there are many simple ways to incorporate many types of asset into the network of connectivity to be able to take better control of assets.
How IoT Tracking Works
IoT tracking has multiple components: Asset, tracking devices, connectivity, and remote software. Every asset that needs to be tracked will need to have an IoT enabled device attached to it if it’s not already able to connect to the internet. IoT devices need to be small enough to secure assets and sophisticated enough to connect to a network easily. With the right devices, asset tracking can be extremely smooth and effective.
Once IoT devices are connected to assets, there needs to be connectivity, so businesses can actually track the assets. Often IoT GPS tracking, Bluetooth, and other similar connectivity methods are used to connect a device to the tracking software. The last element of IoT tracking is the device will transmit a signal through the connectivity method to the remote software where the business can view important data on the assets. The software system needs to be effective for smoothly analyzing asset information. With the right IoT technology, asset tracking can be a simple process.
Benefits of IoT Asset Tracking
- Real-time tracking: IoT tracking provides a way to see exactly where every asset is located.
- Reduction of theft and loss: Asset tracking is an excellent tool to reduce the amount of assets that are misplaced or stolen.
- Smoother supply chain and workflow: Knowing where assets are can keep every step of the supply chain moving smoothly with fewer interruptions and delays.
- Improved performance and monitoring: Data from assets can also inform performance of a product. For example, if the data shows one breaks, the next model can be improved upon and perform better.
- IoT tracking can help take your company to the next level of digital transformation.