Finding An ROI In RTLS

In business, it's generally true that what you're trying to manage – people or processes – are in plain sight. But, what if you can't locate what you're trying to measure? Well, that creates a different challenge altogether. The primary goal at that point becomes simply finding a better way to locate important assets and personnel. Once you have addressed this challenge, there are ways to better manage the processes that surround it.

As it turns out, inadequate location information (of assets and personnel) is a common stumbling block to business process improvement in many vertical markets. This lack of visibility hampers hospitals as they try to improve patient flow and optimize equipment usage. It can halt manufacturing processes as critical tools or supplies go missing temporarily. It sidetracks a shipping operation as employees try to locate specific goods or packing materials.

Companies in these verticals, and others, are certainly aware of the lack of asset visibility within their enterprises. There is also a growing awareness of potential technology solutions that significantly improve visibility. In particular, RTLS solutions are starting to gain traction among enterprises. By tagging important assets and leveraging wireless communication technologies (in some instances, it's the same Wi-Fi network already in place), companies now can have access to location information in real time. Can't find a piece of patient diagnostic equipment? An RTLS solution can instantly locate it.

RTLS is a powerful solution. Like all technology investments, however, it must be justified. Increased visibility is an attractive, intangible benefit. To justify the expense of an RTLS solution, an enterprise must be clear on the tangible benefits that increased visibility affords. It's not uncommon for a single department to initiate the drive for an RTLS solution. But, it's rare that an RTLS could only impact a single department. Enterprises may use an application within one department to justify the investment, but they should also be planning to extend the RTLS solution – and its benefits – throughout their companies.