I’m a high school digital media teacher in need of software to manage equipment checkouts by students, such as cameras, flashes, lenses, and other accessories. Our equipment is barcoded, and I need an app that can scan these barcodes and assign equipment to students. A colleague developed an app for my iPhone, but it’s glitchy and occasionally loses data, which is risky with expensive gear. I’m looking for a more reliable solution that avoids using Google Sheets, which I’ve used for years. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Have you considered using your school library’s system? They typically have the capability to track various items, not just books.
ace said:
Have you considered using your school library’s system? They typically have the capability to track various items, not just books.
We discussed using a system called Destiny, but I wasn’t sure it could handle non-book items. It’s helpful to know other schools might use it for that purpose. Thanks!
@RichJohnson4
Library systems like Destiny are versatile and can manage any type of asset, not just books. They’re designed to handle a variety of items, including the type of equipment you’re dealing with.
There are several inventory tracking apps available in the App Store that might meet your needs. I saw a couple, such as Sortly and Stockroom Inventory, that look promising.
Google Sheets combined with a Google Forms add-on could still be a viable solution. It allows for easy tracking of who has checked out what item and when it’s returned, all manageable from your phone.
Ideally, you need a system that manages your inventory, prints barcodes, and allows for easy checkout to students, possibly integrating student IDs for faster processing.
Bright said:
Ideally, you need a system that manages your inventory, prints barcodes, and allows for easy checkout to students, possibly integrating student IDs for faster processing.
Exactly, I need something simple where I can scan student IDs and equipment barcodes for checkouts and returns. The app should be stable and reliable unlike my current system.
Be cautious with some library systems as they may not perform well with large quantities of items. Always check how they handle multiple entries of similar items to avoid system crashes.
I’m working on a side project that might suit your needs. Could I ask a few questions to better understand your requirements and tailor the app?
JimGreenfield said:
I’m working on a side project that might suit your needs. Could I ask a few questions to better understand your requirements and tailor the app?
Sure, I’m actually trying to learn AppSheet to perhaps develop something myself. I’d be interested in discussing your project.
@RichJohnson4
Thanks! How would you prefer to enter student data? Also, are you open to using additional equipment like a barcode reader, or would you prefer using something like a smartphone camera?
JimGreenfield said:
@RichJohnson4
Thanks! How would you prefer to enter student data? Also, are you open to using additional equipment like a barcode reader, or would you prefer using something like a smartphone camera?
The iPhone camera has been effective for scanning in my current setup, so I’d prefer to continue using that if possible.