Best Mobile Apps for Construction Asset Tracking: Features and Benefits
Oded Ran, CEO and Co-Founder of Clue since 2019, expertly integrates AI and data tools to revolutionize construction equipment management and maintenance, positioning Clue as a premier software choice in the construction industry.
As we have seen, the construction industry is fast developing, and therefore, it is essential to have records or to track down assets.
Using asset-tracking mobile apps has made tracking equipment and tools more accessible and reliable.
Here are this blog's objectives: Outline the critical features of the top mobile asset tracking apps, their advantages, how to choose the right app for your organization, and more.
What are Asset Tracking Mobile Apps?
Asset-tracking mobile apps refer to applications created to assist businesses with tracking their assets via smartphones and tablets.
These apps also incorporate GPS or QR codes to deliver real-time information on the position, utilization, and status of equipment or tools used in various projects.
For construction companies, asset-tracking mobile apps are helpful, especially when tracking expensive equipment and tools.
This helps establish accountability on the location of every item to ensure operational effectiveness.
Key Technologies Used include
- GPS (Global Positioning System): It enables tracking of the position of the assets as they occur.
- Barcodes/QR Codes: Barcodes/QR codes give details of the asset when one tries to scan it.
What are the Benefits of Having an Asset Tracking Mobile App?
Asset-tracking mobile apps offer many benefits for users. They provide an on-the-go asset tracking solution and help improve operations on-site.
Here are a few key benefits of using asset-tracking mobile apps.
1. Real-Time Tracking
Another benefit of mobile app asset tracking is knowing the asset's status at any moment.
GPS and RFID facilities let you know how, where, and at what moment your equipment and tools are.
If any is lost or stolen, it is easily identified, and if equipment maintenance is needed, it can be managed well.
2. Improved Efficiency
Several processes are made more accessible by construction asset tracking apps.
For instance, one can easily avoid walking around with a trolley, scanning every physical asset in the stock, and instead get the app to identify the place or status of the equipment.
This prevents time wastage and incorrect information being produced in the process.
3. Cost Savings
This is because there is usually a lot of paperwork and documentation done concerning assets in a construction project, and it is obvious that this can be costly.
Tracking the asset can help minimize its loss and thus give an understanding of when to avoid buying a new asset.
Moreover, asset-tracking construction power tools enable a preventive maintenance schedule, thus avoiding inevitable breakdowns and high repair costs.
4. Enhanced Accountability
With asset tracking in construction, every usage of an asset is recorded.
A user can be seen using what, where, and when by clicking a button.
It assists in controlling labor expenses and guarantees all the facilities are recovered once used.
5. Maintenance Management
Maintenance management is essential, considering efficient equipment must be well maintained.
Most construction asset tracking apps include maintenance schedules and maintenance history.
This assists in keeping track of all equipment and servicing it regularly to avoid developing faults in the anchoring rounds.
6. Data Insights
Mobile asset tracking apps are very effective in gathering information about an asset's usage, location, and even state.
This information can then be used to infer the proper use of the assets, enhancing the appropriate decision-making regarding their management.
7. Improved Inventory Management
Managing inventory can be challenging, especially on large construction sites.
Asset-tracking construction apps provide accurate, up-to-date information about the assets and inventory.
Improved asset tracking ensures you always know what inventory you have on hand and which requires purchasing.
8. Compliance and Reporting
Compliance with industry regulations is essential in construction.
Asset tracking for construction apps can help ensure compliance by providing detailed reports and documentation.
This can be particularly useful for audits and regulatory inspections.
9. User-Friendly Interface
Mobile app asset tracking should be easy to use.
The best apps offer intuitive interfaces that simplify tracking and managing assets without requiring extensive training.
10. Integration with Other Systems
Many asset-tracking mobile apps integrate with other software systems used in construction, such as project management or accounting software.
This integration helps streamline processes and ensure asset management is aligned with other business operations.
Top 10 Asset Tracking Mobile Apps
1. Clue
Available For
iOS, Android
Pricing
Mobile app is available for free for users
Developer
Clue Insights Inc.
Category
Business
About the App
Clue is a platform that helps you to digitalize, connect, and manage your construction operation from assets, and crew to job sites.
It also benefits the customer by saving cost, time, and the environment.
The asset tracking mobile app helps locate fixed or moveable assets using GPS tracking, get real-time performance data on heavy equipment, track and keep track of crews using timesheets, and regulate access to a job site via geo-fence.
Group functions like these are all integrated and easily accessible using Clue.
Clue covers construction companies of different scales, such as real-time notifications on idle assets, team performance, and equipment.
Clue users reduce maintenance costs by 24% and fuel and machine depreciation by 22%; management time decreases from days to minutes.
It increases productivity on the job site and dips the overall operation cost and equipment ownership.
2. B2W
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
BID2WIN Software Inc.
Category
Business
About the App
The B2W Employee App is a mobile application that lets contractors register and review information on employee work.
It enables one employee to develop a clear timetable for the working day, time, activities, and equipment used.
These logs can be edited online in real-time or online and then synchronized with an available server when the connection is made.
A few of these features are configurable fields that allow entry of business-relevant data, mobile signatures that the employees can sign using their mobile devices, and integrated workflow for review and validation.
Features of the app also support accounting. The work log covers individuals and separates crews while approved labor hours are successfully fed into payroll through the B2W Track.
ShareMyToolbox aims to minimize tool loss, theft, and excessive accumulation.
This one is an obvious choice for field teams designed to provide a convenient way of managing and sharing the tools with others.
3. Sharemytoolbox
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
ShareMyToolbox, LLC
Category
Productivity
About the App
ShareMyToolbox provides a detailed list of tools that are available and also allows one to search for a tool using a mobile device and, at the same time, avoid buying the same tools.
It increases transparency to address issues concerning stockpiling and increases responsibility to address cases of loss and misuse of tools.
The main features of the Starter Plan are as follows: you can control up to 100 tools and supervise three employees with 10 Virtual jobs.
It can scan barcodes and QR codes, and the borrowing and lending process is made much easier; the online help is vast.
4. Safety Culture
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
SafetyCulture Pty Ltd
Category
Business
About the App
SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor) is a mobile-first operations solution that contains essential resources and workflows for improved safety and productivity.
It gets the teams to work safely, to enhanced standards and continuously optimizes.
The app enables the generation of checklists, inspection, management of issues and assets, and delivery of training to the teams.
It transforms paper checklists into mobile-friendly forms and helps share professional reports in the blink of an eye.
Some of the most prominent organizations globally apply it to drive change management across the company and create sustained development.
5. Asset Panda
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
LRK Partners
Category
Productivity
About the App
Asset Panda allows asset tracking and management in real-time and is very flexible and full-featured.
It fits most large companies' needs to track assets throughout the entire asset life cycle.
The mobile app turns your phone into a barcode reader, audit tool, and more, helping to simplify your asset management.
6. Autodesk BIM
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
Autodesk
Category
Business
About the App
Autodesk Construction Cloud is a combination of software that comprises the following: Autodesk Build, Autodesk BIM Collaborate, Autodesk Docs, and PlanGrid.
It helps the construction teams to manage their projects efficiently. Solutions such as automation, intelligent tool connection, and vast and comprehensive workflow enable Autodesk Construction Cloud to provide optimum productivity through effective project control on time and costs.
The construction site can use essential tools such as Autodesk Build, Autodesk BIM Collaborate, Autodesk Docs, Revit, Navisworks, PlanGrid, and AutoCAD.
You can access efficient construction and construction document management, collaboration, and project information on the site through the mobile app.
The mobile app supports Autodesk Build, Docs, Revit, Navisworks, PlanGrid, and AutoCAD.
7. Quickbase
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
QuickBase, Inc.
Category
Business
About the App
Quickbase is a no-code platform that enables users to build, implement, and customize applications to suit even the most intricate work.
This is why, with the Quickbase app, you can easily manage your workflow whenever and wherever you are.
One of the significant advantages is that the app gives an instant way of accessing each Quickbase application, creating, viewing, editing, searching, and sharing data.
The biometric login and authentication are for safe mobile access.
This feature has incorporated Geolocation, which allows maps to upload automatically and allows mobile uploading of photos and files.
Also, you can see real-time operations of the reports, charts, forms, and even insights into the business.
8. Clearpath GPS
Available For
Android and iOS
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
CLEARPATHGPS LLC
Category
Business
About the App
ClearPath GPS gives a quick look at where your whole fleet is.
It keeps track of other subgroups for safety, performance, and responsibility, and geofence reports that cover job sites and fueling stations.
Equipment managers can quickly use real-time traffic information obtained from Google and alert them of safety concerns, namely speeding, excessive idling, and hard braking.
With just a tap, you can check its status, where it is now when it will stop, and even get a Google map street view for reference, or just shake fingers twice to produce a virtual timecard to serve as proof of service.
The app is fully compatible with ClearPathGPS’s web-based portal.
This allows for improved efficiency and profitability regardless of whether your team is based in the office, in the field, or on the move.
9. QR Inventory
Available For
Android
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
AHG, Inc
Category
Inventory Management, Business
About the App
QR Inventory is a versatile and effective software solution for inventory management tailored for companies of any size.
It brings convenience, speed, and accessibility to any business by using QR Codes, NFC, and mobile technology.
Using QR Inventory, checking in and out stock, and finding products is possible.
You can use the designated QR codes, UPC barcodes, or NFC tags on the smartphone without using costly proprietary scanners.
Asset tracking for construction RFID hammer provides fast throughputs for venues involving many purchases simultaneously.
Internet connection offers available data on inventory stock and other necessary information through the smartphone at anytime.
10. Aligntech
Available For
iOS, Android
Pricing
Free for users
Developer
Aligntech
Category
Business, Asset Management
About the App
Aligntech offers comprehensive asset tracking construction features focusing on integration and scalability.
It’s suitable for large construction projects and businesses.
The app provides advanced reporting, maintenance management, and user access controls to enhance asset oversight and operational efficiency.
With its mobile app, Aligntech allows users to manage asset data, schedule maintenance, and access reports from any job site.
Its customizable features and detailed insights help optimize asset utilization, reduce costs, and improve overall project management.
Choosing the Right Asset-Tracking Mobile Apps
Finding the best asset-tracking mobile apps for your construction needs is complex and requires considering more than a few factors.
Here is a detailed guide to help you make the best choice for your business.
1. Define Your Needs
Begin by sketching your requirements for an asset-tracking mobile app.
While deciding on the assets to be tracked, you would have to consider the sort of assets, like construction machinery or power tools, that are required to be tracked, as well as the size of the project.
Decide whether the construction asset tracking software app must include specific features such as updating the location or the maintenance schedule.
2. Features and Functionality
Assessing the app's usability, navigation, and overall convenience is necessary. Some key functionalities include real-time location, maintenance control, and reporting.
The app should have GPS tracking, RFID scanning, reporting, and analytics capabilities for asset tracking in construction.
Assess whether the app offers the exact solutions you require for managing your assets and functionalities that would enhance your company’s operations.
3. User Interface and Experience
Well-designed asset-tracking mobile apps have a clean and easy-to-understand user interface.
When testing different asset-tracking mobile apps, look for one with a dashboard that has all the requirements.
Ensure that all the essential features are displayed and easily located.
Mobile asset tracking applications should be easy to navigate, have simple interfaces, have response time, and a help section.
This will also ensure that your team is ready to use the app with few instructions.
4. Integration Capabilities
Consider whether the app interacts with other systems, projects, or accounting ones.
It is cost-effective because it eliminates the need to use middle- or third-party applications to transfer data from one system to another.
For example, an app designed to work with the construction asset tracking software you use will improve the overall workflow.
5. Scalability
Walking and integrating the app into expanding your business should also be possible.
In particular, ensure that your operations' increased asset tracking needs are accommodated without negatively impacting function.
An effective asset-tracking construction solution will handle more assets, users, and data as the business grows.
This makes it a more valuable and flexible solution in the long term.
6. Security
Privacy is crucial regarding data, and security has to be tight.
Search for applications with tight security settings to ensure that strangers do not access your asset's data.
Maintaining the security of mobile asset-tracking apps is critical. They should encrypt data, logins, and other features and install security updates.
7. Customization
Customization enables you to meet many particular needs without straining yourself when looking for other applications.
Select an app with customizable fields, reports, and workflows that will likely be adopted. This is especially helpful in asset tracking for construction, where one may need an app to meet the needs of specific projects or organizational practices and policies.
8. Support & Training
The availability of customer support and other training materials is crucial to guarantee that the user understands how to use the app.
Look for service points like help desks, web resources, and help manuals.
Adequate PowerPoint training resources and your support will ensure an effective solution to any problems that arise, enhancing your asset-tracking mobile app experience.
9. Cost
Look at the cost of the app and see whether it fits within your financial capacity.
This keeps a balance investing in good-quality asset-tracking software for construction is essential, but finding a cost-effective app is also important.
Compare pricing strategies: fixed costs or a regular subscription. Evaluate the cost compared to the service, features, and service gained.
10. Reviews & Reputation
Check out the ratings and the image of the stated app.
Users’ opinions can also be an adequate source of information about the app’s stability and effectiveness.
Search for feedback and recommendations from other construction practitioners to determine how efficiently the app works in construction settings and whether it has met the accepted level of construction asset tracking.
11. Trial & Demo
Many apps include trial versions or demo versions of the actual application.
Use these to test and check if the particular app is what you require before going further to subscribe.
This is because a trial period enables one to get acquainted with the app's operation and usability to determine if it will suit their needs and expectations for a mobile asset tracking app.
Conclusion
Construction site asset tracking mobile apps are now considered essentials for today's construction projects.
These are presented in different aspects, providing productive results that organize work processes, improve outputs, and adequately address asset management.
These apps offer essential tools ranging from real-time tracking projects to better inventory, which is beneficial to managing construction companies and reducing their expenses.
Several factors are considered when selecting the most appropriate asset-tracking mobile app, including its compatibility with your needs, its features and interface, compatibility with other tools and applications, and the cost of the app.
This means that as the construction industry advances into the future, technology such as construction asset tracking will become more critical to ensure its competitiveness.
One right App can significantly change how you manage your assets in terms of time and costs, leading to the project's success.
FAQs
How do asset-tracking mobile apps improve maintenance management?
Mobile applications in asset tracking assist in maintenance by creating routine and due schedules for maintenance activities and service history. Such a strategy helps avoid equipment downtime and ensures that assets are well utilized and their life span is optimized.
Can asset-tracking apps integrate with other construction software?
Asset-tracking construction apps contain other functions such as project management, accounting, and ERP systems interfaces. This integration will help confirm that asset management is appropriately coordinated with the rest of the business procedures, enhancing productivity.
Are there free asset-tracking apps available?
Some asset-tracking mobile apps have a free version, while some are paid. Sharemytoolbox has additional features for which you must pay, but it is free. When choosing a free version, one has to accept the fact that it might be less featureful than the paid version and may not have as good support.
What are the security concerns with asset tracking apps?
Security is one of the biggest issues when employing asset-tracking software for construction. Make sure the app of your choice has the best security features, such as data encryption, safe login procedures, and regular updates. Also, ensure that the application meets certain standards and policies related to data protection.
How can asset-tracking apps help with compliance and reporting?
Construction apps that offer asset tracking help keep records and document the compliance and usage of the assets and their location. These records are necessary for audits, regulatory inspections, and checking all the equipment for proper safety and performance.
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