Over the past few years, digital technology has reinvented the ways in which asset tracking can be used. Although the practice of using sign-out sheets for rented equipment and reference materials is not new, innovations in adapting the practice to modern logistics have grown by leaps and bounds. Outside of education, any organization can also share virtual space through sign-out spreadsheet software. As the technologies behind virtual offices and classrooms continue to become industry standard, the format of signing materials in and out has taken numerous cues from professional development methods of equipment monitoring. With that in mind, here, we will look at just three great uses for digital sign-out materials that can benefit your organization, whether you’re in the education field or the private sector.
1. Equipment Lending and Accuracy
Traditionally, sign-out logs have been used to keep track of reference materials and equipment loaned to a client or fellow employee. In the case of expensive hardware, an accurate program for asset management is crucial. For example, an organization’s media department may be responsible for such items as camera equipment or laptops. This makes it a perfect area to implement some form of sign out sheet or log.
Although there are different ways for clients to rent items from an equipment company or rental house, the best way to virtually keep track of books and equipment is to utilize a shared software program. Here, both the lender and borrower can keep track of deadlines and due dates. A password-protected sign-out log can also go a long way in guaranteeing that digital books, borrowed programs, and hardware are used responsibly and returned on time.
2. Student Growth and Feedback
Aside from keeping accurate track of loaned materials, a digital sign-out spreadsheet for the classroom library can have the added benefit of charting student growth. Whether looking at the elementary level or higher education, a sign-out program can be utilized to chart lesson plans and the cognitive understanding of teacher instructions. Regardless of the subject areas, both administration and faculty can use real-time student data to monitor the success rate of the full classroom community.
In an additional form of cooperative learning, teachers can assign and monitor student reflective journals in conjunction with the sign-out spreadsheet. Unlike an independent work packet, this can mimic the one-on-one approach of an in-person classroom. A good sign-out program for asset tracking may also contain options for class reminders, bulletin board ideas, and interactive resources. As more schools introduce hybrid methods that combine in-person lessons with digital classroom options, a sign-out spreadsheet program for tracking can help improve the overall learning experience.
3. Cutting Down on Loss
One overlooked use of a good sign-out asset tracking is its ability to dictate needed future equipment while cutting down on current loss. Any company or organization that loans materials can use raw asset data for this very purpose. For example, if a piece of equipment has proven more popular than an alternative product, asset tracking data can help determine future purchases and projected budgets. Additionally, media and asset departments often provide feedback to the publishers and manufacturers, which in turn can determine lesson plans or marketing strategies.
Ultimately, the most common specialty of a sign-out spreadsheet program is its ability to cut down on asset loss. By keeping accurate track of books and hardware, damaged items can be quickly replaced, and stolen materials can be easily found. This major benefit can apply to any company or entity that loans out valuable materials, even internally. It’s important to develop a solid strategic plan to keep valued assets functioning and available to the clients and students who need them the most.
