Connected Inventory - Designing a connected inventory concept for rental equipment tracking and management at Feldschlösschen Supply Company AG

Abstract

This master thesis research investigates if tracking of inventory can improve KPIs in circular asset flows. In doing so, it coalesces the logistics aspects of circularity and connectivity. The findings indicate the advantageousness of asset tracking and present important aspects for establishing a connected inventory system in the rental equipment business. It is found that transparency regarding an asset’s operational status is more important than knowing its precise location. The research design involves primary and secondary research. In the literature review, suitable communication technologies for asset tracking are examined and current application scenarios of low-power wide-area networks are collated. Primary research is conducted by applying a design science methodology. This thesis’ artefact is a connected inventory concept for Feldschlösschen Supply Company AG.