Items, stock models or consumables?

1. When should a product be added as an individual item?

Almost all items should be added as individual units.

This way, each item receives its own unique identifier, allowing you to accurately track its location, usage, and maintenance history.

Use individual items when:

• You want to add unique information (e.g., serial number, purchase details, or other data that differs from similar items).
• You want to report maintenance for the item.
• You want to track reservations at an individual item level.
• You want to utilize other features such as inventory, investments, sharing, or mobile item tracking.

Examples of items:

• Power drill > Bosch GSR 18V-55
• Camera > Canon EOS 90D
• Computer > Apple MacBook 13”
• Furniture / Chairs > Nikari Akademia

2. When should a product be added as a stock model?

Stock models are added at the model level.

They are suitable for additional products, where individual tracking is not needed. These are monitored based on total quantity — for example, there may be “12 pcs of safety vests” in stock.

Use stock models when:

• The products do not need to be individually identified.
• The products are returned after use.
• You only want to track the total quantity in stock.

Examples of stock models:

• Electrical cables > Extension cord 10 m
• Uniforms > High-visibility vest, size L
• Hand tools > Hammer, standard model

3. When should a product be added as a consumable?

Consumables are also added at the model level.

Unlike stock models, consumables are used up and not returned to stock. They are great for spare parts. When a consumable is added to a reservation or to maintenance as a spare part, its stock balance decreases.

Use consumables when:

• The product cannot be reused.
• You want to track consumption and stock reduction.

Examples of consumables:

• Batteries > AA battery, pack of 4
• Cleaning supplies > Surface disinfectant, 1 L
• Ballet shoes > Ballet shoe, size 46
• Spare lamp > LED lamp, 15 W

Summary