Background of the Study :
University laboratories house a vast array of assets, including scientific equipment, instruments, and valuable research materials. Effective asset tracking and management are essential for ensuring operational efficiency, preventing loss, and optimizing resource allocation. In Keffi LGA, Nasarawa State, many university laboratories still rely on manual inventory methods that are labor-intensive and error-prone. The adoption of IoT-based asset tracking systems offers a transformative solution by enabling real-time monitoring and automated management of laboratory assets. This study proposes to investigate the use of IoT technology for asset tracking in university laboratories. The system will deploy RFID tags and IoT sensors on critical equipment, which will transmit location and usage data to a centralized management platform. Such a system facilitates efficient tracking, minimizes asset misplacement, and provides insights into equipment utilization patterns (Ibrahim, 2023). Additionally, the integration of this technology with cloud-based databases allows for secure storage and easy retrieval of asset information, reducing administrative burdens and improving accountability. Previous research has shown that IoT-based asset management systems can significantly enhance resource management in academic settings (Olu, 2024). By focusing on the specific needs of university laboratories in Keffi LGA, this study aims to develop a scalable and cost-effective solution tailored to local infrastructural conditions. The project will involve system design, prototyping, and field testing, with a particular emphasis on ensuring user-friendliness and data security. The anticipated outcome is a robust asset tracking system that not only streamlines laboratory operations but also supports decision-making processes related to resource allocation and maintenance scheduling (Adeniyi, 2025).
Statement of the Problem :
University laboratories in Keffi LGA face significant challenges in managing and tracking critical assets due to outdated manual inventory systems. These traditional methods are prone to errors, result in asset misplacement, and incur high administrative costs. The lack of a real-time tracking system hinders efficient asset management and can lead to delays in equipment maintenance and replacement, ultimately affecting research productivity. Moreover, manual systems do not provide insights into asset utilization patterns, making it difficult for laboratory managers to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation. The absence of an automated, integrated asset management system further complicates efforts to safeguard expensive laboratory equipment. These challenges are compounded by limited budgets and the lack of technical expertise required to implement modern asset tracking solutions. There is an urgent need for an IoT-based asset tracking system that can automate inventory management, reduce losses, and provide real-time data for efficient resource planning. This study seeks to address these issues by developing and evaluating a smart asset tracking system that leverages RFID and IoT sensor technology. By automating asset tracking and integrating data into a centralized platform, the system is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce administrative overhead, and improve asset security in university laboratories (Ibrahim, 2023; Olu, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
To design an IoT-based asset tracking system for real-time monitoring of laboratory equipment.
To integrate RFID technology with cloud-based data management for efficient asset tracking.
To evaluate the system’s impact on inventory management and resource utilization in university laboratories.
Research Questions:
How effective is the IoT-based system in tracking laboratory assets in real time?
What benefits does RFID integration provide in reducing asset misplacement?
How does the system improve overall asset management and utilization in university laboratories?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it develops an IoT-based asset tracking system tailored to university laboratories, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of inventory management. By automating asset tracking, the system minimizes losses, reduces administrative costs, and provides actionable insights for resource allocation. The model offers a scalable solution for improving laboratory operations, contributing to enhanced research productivity and better management practices (Adeniyi, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of the IoT-based asset tracking system in university laboratories in Keffi LGA, Nasarawa State, and does not extend to other types of institutions.
Definitions of Terms:
Asset Tracking: The process of monitoring the location and status of physical assets.
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification): A technology for automatic identification and tracking of objects using radio waves.
Cloud-Based Data Management: The storage and processing of data on remote servers accessible over the internet.
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