RFID Tool Control on a Distributed Operational Fleet

The Challenge

Field technical services with a fleet carrying critical tools. Missing tool detected only on the next service call. Every incident has direct cost.

380,000+ movements logged.

The Solution

• 2,500 tools traced across a distributed operational fleet
• 180,000+ loans with no recorded losses
• Service interruptions from unavailable tools eliminated
• Missing tool detected on fleet return, not on the next service call.
• Recurring repurchase reduced through traceability over the usage cycle.

Context

Field technical services operation with a fleet carrying tools critical to service delivery. Inventory is distributed across the fleet, not in warehouse.

Approach

Diagnostic mapped the tool-fleet-technician-client cycle. Bounded Deployment in one operational zone to validate fleet-level traceability. Full Project extended to the full operation.

Architecture

RFID tags on tools and kits · fixed readers at dispatch warehouse · readers on mobile units for continuous inventory · integration with dispatch system.

Implications

In field services, critical inventory lives in transit. Managing it from warehouse is managing it where it is not.