Asset tracking solutions: How to build smarter systems with IoT technology

Companies across industries are recognizing the strategic value of asset tracking solutions (see industrial IoT products), but not just any solution. The demand is shifting toward custom-built, scalable systems that fit specific operational needs. Why worry about asset tracking? In this era, we know how important it is to save time in operational tasks, so wasting minutes or even hours looking for an asset inside a company is not something many people can afford. This is why integrating advanced hardware and connectivity is the key to better tracking, reduced costs, and increased efficiency.

Let’s break down what a modern asset tracking system looks like today and how your team can leverage technologies like Nordic Semiconductor BLE chips, edge computing, and smart PCB design to create solutions tailored for your industry.

Why off-the-shelf tags don’t fit every business

Not every company can rely on standardized tracking tags for equipment. While they might serve basic inventory needs, they often fall short in environments where:

• Assets are mobile, expensive, or mission-critical.

   

• Custom data needs to be collected (e.g., temperature, motion, battery status).

   

• Integration with enterprise software or cloud platforms is required.

   

For this reason, organizations are choosing to build or customize their own asset tracking systems, combining embedded hardware and BLE communication with real-time cloud sync and analytics. In other cases, they look for Internet of Things product design and development consultants to build something exclusive for them.

1. BLE-Based office equipment tracker

 How It Works: This solution uses Nordic’s nRF52840 or nRF5340 BLE chips embedded in or attached to critical office equipment such as laptops, projectors, and conference room tech. These chips offer low energy consumption and secure Bluetooth communication.

Functionality: Each device broadcasts its location using BLE advertisements. BLE gateways or smartphones positioned throughout the office can detect and triangulate these signals to determine the asset’s location.

Integration: Data from the tracked devices syncs with a cloud platform, enabling office managers or IT teams to monitor the status and whereabouts of key equipment in real time through a dashboard or mobile app.

Benefits: This system reduces time wasted searching for shared devices, helps prevent loss or theft, and supports hybrid work policies by tracking when and where assets are being used.

2. Lifecycle tracking for IT assets in offices

How It Works:
For managing laptops, tablets, docking stations, and other IT assets, a lifecycle tracking solution using Nordic’s BLE chips can be implemented in office settings.

Functionality: Each asset is equipped with a discreet BLE tag. These tags track events like check-ins/check-outs, maintenance history, software updates, and movement between departments or employees.

Cloud Integration: Tags transmit data to a centralized asset management platform that logs lifecycle events, triggers maintenance alerts, and ensures compliance with internal IT protocols.

Enhanced Insights: The system highlights underutilized devices, monitors device aging, and simplifies audit processes.

Benefits: With accurate lifecycle visibility, IT teams can optimize resource allocation, forecast procurement needs, and reduce costs associated with lost or idle equipment.

Why develop custom asset tracking solutions?

When you develop your own system, you get:

• Control over features, functionality, and data access

   

• Scalability to expand across teams, buildings, or regions

   

• Long-term savings over inflexible subscription platforms

   

• Higher ROI through optimized workflows and asset utilization

   

Let’s build the right solution for you

At DeepSea Developments, we help companies create smarter asset tracking systems, from BLE hardware and firmware to cloud integration and mobile interfaces. We work with Nordic technologies and other leading tech to help you build flexible, powerful, and industry-specific devices. If you’re looking to build or upgrade your own asset tracking solution, get in touch. Let’s build it together.