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The Shelf Blog

Insights for modern teams.

Updates from the team, deep dives into asset management, and engineering stories.

Shelf Blog Collection
Best Equipment Management Software in 2026: An Honest Comparison
Asset Tracking Management

Best Equipment Management Software in 2026: An Honest Comparison

A fair, detailed comparison of 7 equipment management tools — Shelf, Cheqroom, Sortly, Snipe-IT, EZOfficeInventory, Asset Panda, and Reftab — with real pricing, honest trade-offs, and guidance by use case.

How to Fund School Media Equipment: Grants, Perkins/CTE, Title IV, and More
Industry Specific Applications

How to Fund School Media Equipment: Grants, Perkins/CTE, Title IV, and More

A practical guide to federal, state, and private funding sources for K-12 schools that need to purchase cameras, audio gear, and production equipment for student media programs.

The Post-Phone-Ban Equipment Problem: What Schools Need Now
Industry Specific Applications

The Post-Phone-Ban Equipment Problem: What Schools Need Now

33 states have banned student phones. Student media programs just lost their primary tools. Here's the operational problem nobody's talking about — and what schools can do about it.

What Equipment Schools Need for Student Media Programs After Phone Bans
Industry Specific Applications

What Equipment Schools Need for Student Media Programs After Phone Bans

A practical, budgeted equipment guide for K-12 schools building media programs after cellphone bans — organized by program type with real products and prices.

Take Control of Your Booking Notifications
Software Features Capabilities

Take Control of Your Booking Notifications

Shelf now lets workspace admins configure exactly who receives booking email notifications — at both the workspace level and per booking. Reduce noise, add coverage, and keep the right people informed.

Asset Tracking for Utility Field Operations: Preventing Lost Equipment in High-Risk Environments
Data Analytics Reporting

Asset Tracking for Utility Field Operations: Preventing Lost Equipment in High-Risk Environments

Transmission corridors, substations, and storm-response zones combine high voltage, height, and weather extremes. Crews rotate frequently, job sites are remote, and connectivity is inconsistent. The tools themselves are specialized and expensive—thermal imagers, RF sensors, live-line tools, UAS payloads, and PPE with strict inspection intervals—so every loss hurts.

Film School Equipment Checkout Policies & Best Practices
Asset Tracking Management

Film School Equipment Checkout Policies & Best Practices

Film schools and media programs juggle hundreds of cameras, audio kits, and lighting rigs that constantly flow between courses, sets, and student projects. Without a structured policy, even the best cage managers battle bottlenecks, lost lenses, or scheduling conflicts that derail productions. This guide consolidates proven practices from campus equipment rooms, fills gaps left by scattered institutional playbooks, and shows how Shelf’s platform helps document workflows, automate reminders, and drive accountability without resorting to guesswork.

Equipment Management Software for Universities: Streamlining Campus Resources
Asset Tracking Management

Equipment Management Software for Universities: Streamlining Campus Resources

Learn how equipment management software for universities tracks, manages and schedules campus equipment while improving accountability and student access.

From Cheqroom to Shelf: A Migration Success Story
Case Studies

From Cheqroom to Shelf: A Migration Success Story

How Kansas City Art Institute Kept Their Existing Asset Labeling System While Upgrading Their Equipment Management

Intelligent Asset Management Software for Universities & Creative Labs
Asset Tracking Management

Intelligent Asset Management Software for Universities & Creative Labs

Explore how intelligent asset management software empowers universities and creative labs with tracking, proactive maintenance and streamlined workflows.

New Custom Fields on Shelf
Team Collaboration Communication

New Custom Fields on Shelf

Discover how Shelf's seven custom field types can transform your asset management. From simple text fields to complex financial tracking, learn which field types work best for your equipment and how to configure them for maximum efficiency.

Why We Built Availability View: When Customers Show You What's Missing
Team Collaboration Communication

Why We Built Availability View: When Customers Show You What's Missing

How a single customer email changed our roadmap and taught us about real-world asset management

When to Track vs When to Tag: The Art & Science of Modern Asset Management
Asset Tracking Management

When to Track vs When to Tag: The Art & Science of Modern Asset Management

In a recent discussion that caught fire among IT professionals, a seemingly simple question sparked an intense debate: Should every piece of equipment at an employee's desk have an asset tag? The conversation that followed revealed the complexity of modern asset management, where the intersection of compliance, practicality, and human behavior creates unique challenges for every organization.

Asset Tracking for Federally Funded Nonprofits
Asset Tracking Management

Asset Tracking for Federally Funded Nonprofits

As the founder of Shelf, I've witnessed the transformative power of efficient asset tracking across various sectors. Today, I want to focus on how nonprofits, particularly those receiving federal funding, can leverage modern asset management solutions to amplify their impact and streamline operations.

The Great Asset Tag Debate: Bridging Traditional Methods with Modern Asset Management
Asset Tracking Management

The Great Asset Tag Debate: Bridging Traditional Methods with Modern Asset Management

In the ever changing world of IT and asset management, a new question has emerged: How do we mix traditional asset tagging methods with the digital revolution?

Introducing QR Scan-to-Add: Transforming Asset Bookings
Asset Tracking Management

Introducing QR Scan-to-Add: Transforming Asset Bookings

Revolutionize your asset booking process with our new QR Scan-to-Add feature. Now, asset managers can effortlessly add items to bookings by simply scanning QR codes, making the process faster and more intuitive than ever before. Perfect for mobile and tablet users, this feature brings a new level of efficiency to your asset management workflow.

The True ROI of Asset Management: A Nuanced Perspective
Asset Tracking Management

The True ROI of Asset Management: A Nuanced Perspective

The ROI of asset management varies significantly based on your industry, operational model, and the nature of your assets. Today, I want to dig into this nuanced landscape and challenge some common assumptions.

How We Used to Think About Native Apps — and What Changed
Software Features Capabilities

How We Used to Think About Native Apps — and What Changed

In 2024 we wrote a post explaining why Shelf didn't have native apps. In 2026 we shipped one. Here's the honest story of what changed our mind, what stayed true, and what we'd say differently today.

Industry-Specific CSV Import Examples
Software Features Capabilities

Industry-Specific CSV Import Examples

One of the most powerful features of Shelf is its ability to import existing asset data via CSV files. To help you get started, we've created a set of industry-specific CSV templates that you can use as a starting point for your own asset management journey.

Shelf Asset Management Software - Q2 2024 - Product Walkthrough Demo
Asset Tracking Management

Shelf Asset Management Software - Q2 2024 - Product Walkthrough Demo

Every quarter we make a product walkthrough video. Read and see the 2024 Q2 Product Walkthrough video.

Top PC Naming Conventions for System Admins
Asset Tracking Management

Top PC Naming Conventions for System Admins

We analyzed the most popular PC naming conventions by Sysadmins - what are the most popular ones?

The Ultimate Guide to Implementing an Asset Registry
Asset Tracking Management

The Ultimate Guide to Implementing an Asset Registry

Managing assets is crucial for businesses to run smoothly. An asset registry is a central database that keeps track of a company's assets.In this guide, we'll explore the benefits, challenges, and best practices of setting up an asset registry, and how Shelf can help.

Introducing Custom Field Linking to Categories
Asset Tracking Management

Introducing Custom Field Linking to Categories

In asset management, not all fields are relevant for every category. For instance, a laptop has a MAC address, but a chair does not. This can lead to cluttered and inefficient asset tracking, making it difficult to find the information you need quickly. Our users have been asking for a way to tailor their custom fields to specific categories, and we're happy to deliver.

New Feature Update: Streamlined Bookings and Calendar Integration
Software Features Capabilities

New Feature Update: Streamlined Bookings and Calendar Integration

we've added an "Add to Calendar" button to the booking page for past bookings. This generates an ICS (Internet Calendar Subscription) file containing essential information about the booking, along with a link to the booking page. Now, you can easily add your bookings to your preferred calendar app or platform, keeping track of your schedule a breeze.

Maximizing the Value of Unclaimed QR Asset Labels: New Use Cases and Applications
Software Features Capabilities

Maximizing the Value of Unclaimed QR Asset Labels: New Use Cases and Applications

Scan unclaimed QR codes and link them to existing assets or create new ones. Now, whenever you scan an unclaimed QR code, you'll have two options: register a new asset or link it to an existing one.

Introducing One-Time Passwords!
Updates Maintenance

Introducing One-Time Passwords!

Shelf is transitioning from Magic Links to One-Time password.

What are Unclaimed Asset Labels on Shelf and what are they used for
Asset Tracking Management

What are Unclaimed Asset Labels on Shelf and what are they used for

Unclaimed Asset Labels offer businesses a convenient method of assigning asset labels to new assets right away. Unlike Shelf's traditional asset labels, these tags aren't assigned to individual assets at creation; instead, they are unique codes which are linked to a specific user or workspace. So you can have tags at hand, whenever new equipment comes in - just grab an asset label - add it to your inventory and create an asset.

How to Use Shelf for Tracking Development Kits and Expensive Materials During Demonstrations and Trade Fairs
Asset Disposal Retirement

How to Use Shelf for Tracking Development Kits and Expensive Materials During Demonstrations and Trade Fairs

Shared asset management is hard, many start with an excel sheet and quickly realize that, after trying to keep a tidy inventory sheet. Things get messy. That's where we come in. We at shelf are obsessed with asset related operations and are here to serve with technological solutions to make this process easier and faster.

Our process for creating asset labels
Asset Tracking Management

Our process for creating asset labels

If you're looking to keep track of your inventory and assets, asset labels are a must-have. They help you identify and locate items quickly and easily, prevent loss or theft, and streamline your inventory management process. At Shelf, we specialize in creating high-quality asset labels that meet the unique needs of your business.

Why Your Business Needs Shelf as an Asset Registry Software
Asset Tracking Management

Why Your Business Needs Shelf as an Asset Registry Software

In today's fast-paced business environment, managing assets efficiently is crucial for success. An up-to-date asset registry, a comprehensive database for tracking all your company's assets, is not just a luxury but a necessity. Here's why your business, regardless of its size or industry, should invest in an effective asset registry system like Shelf.

Unlocking Efficiency in Asset Management: Introducing 'Bookings' (Beta)
Software Features Capabilities

Unlocking Efficiency in Asset Management: Introducing 'Bookings' (Beta)

'Bookings' offers a comprehensive solution that allows asset managers and self-service users to reserve a group of assets for future dates, ensuring that every piece of equipment is used to its full potential without the risk of double-booking. This feature is not just about booking; it's about ensuring the right asset is available at the right time for the right person. Here's how it works:

Ovoko: Pioneering a Sustainable Future in Automotive Recycling with Shelf
Case Studies

Ovoko: Pioneering a Sustainable Future in Automotive Recycling with Shelf

If you are still using excel for assets management, you are missing out a lot by not choosing Shelf

Bookings: Release Status
Updates Maintenance

Bookings: Release Status

Keep track of our progress for releasing bookings here.

From me to we. Shelf for teams is now available. Explore what you can do with it here.
Updates Maintenance

From me to we. Shelf for teams is now available. Explore what you can do with it here.

We're excited to announce a significant milestone for Shelf. After much anticipation, we've rolled out a range of powerful team management capabilities, aimed at enhancing your asset management experience. In this blog post, we'll explore what's new and what these exciting updates mean for you.

Releasing teams (Nov 1, 2023)
Updates Maintenance

Releasing teams (Nov 1, 2023)

We're releasing teams access today.

The Importance of Equipment Usage Agreements for Asset Protection
Team Collaboration Communication

The Importance of Equipment Usage Agreements for Asset Protection

If you manage valuable assets for your business, equipment agreements are a crucial component of a comprehensive security strategy. However, for those new to formal asset management, these legal documents can seem like overkill.

New: Shelf PWA (Progresive Web Application) live! (Learn how to use)
Trends Innovations

New: Shelf PWA (Progresive Web Application) live! (Learn how to use)

We are excited to announce the launch of the new Shelf progressive web app (PWA)! This PWA makes it easier than ever to access and use Shelf on your mobile devices.The Shelf PWA brings our powerful asset management software right to your home screen. Simply go to www.shelf.nu in your mobile browser, tap the "Add to Home Screen" prompt, and you'll have instant access to Shelf whenever you need it.

Asset Management vs Inventory Management: What's the Difference?
Asset Tracking Management

Asset Management vs Inventory Management: What's the Difference?

Asset management tracks the equipment your business uses to operate; inventory management tracks the stock you sell or consume. How they differ, when you need each, and how to choose the right system.

Photographers: Use shelf to track the contents of your hard drives
Trends Innovations

Photographers: Use shelf to track the contents of your hard drives

As a photographer, managing and keeping track of your physical assets, such as cameras, lenses, and memory cards, is crucial to maintaining a well-organized and efficient workflow. However, it's equally important to keep track of the content stored on your hard drives, as this can provide valuable insights into your digital asset collection.

Announcement: OSS Capital backs Shelf.nu to fuel it's growth
Asset Tracking Management

Announcement: OSS Capital backs Shelf.nu to fuel it's growth

I am thrilled to announce that Shelf, our innovative software startup in the realm of asset management, has recently secured a strategic investment from OSS Capital, a venture capital firm renowned for its support of open-source projects. This partnership marks a momentous milestone for both Shelf and OSS Capital as we unite our efforts to position Shelf as the premier asset management solution for teams and businesses.

How to set up a student equipment rental workflow and system (Guide)
Industry Specific Applications

How to set up a student equipment rental workflow and system (Guide)

Empowering students to make their own equipment reservations can have a significant impact on the efficiency and productivity of educational institutions. By allowing students to reserve equipment on their own, schools can reduce the workload of staff members, improve the overall student experience, and promote independence among students.

The Importance of PC Asset Tags for Computer Hardware
Maintenance Repair Management

The Importance of PC Asset Tags for Computer Hardware

If you're responsible for managing computer hardware in a business environment, you know how important it is to keep track of your assets. Whether you're dealing with laptops, desktops, servers, or other network devices, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what you have, where it's located, and who has access to it.

Enhance Your Fablab with an Equipment Management System based on QR labels
Industry Specific Applications

Enhance Your Fablab with an Equipment Management System based on QR labels

Fablabs are bustling hubs of creativity, where inventors, makers, and entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life using an array of cutting-edge equipment. However, managing and maintaining this equipment can be a daunting task.

Shelf (short) demo August 2023
Maintenance Repair Management

Shelf (short) demo August 2023

Managing assets efficiently is a critical aspect of any organization's operations, and in today's digital age, having a streamlined system in place is more crucial than ever. In this comprehensive webinar, we delve into the powerful features and functionalities of Shelf, an innovative asset management tool designed to simplify and enhance asset tracking, monitoring, and utilization.

Open Source Asset Management: Unlocking Efficiency and Cost Savings
Asset Tracking Management

Open Source Asset Management: Unlocking Efficiency and Cost Savings

As businesses grow and expand, managing assets /equipment becomes increasingly complex. From tracking hardware and software inventory to ensuring compliance with licensing agreements, effective asset management plays a crucial role in optimizing efficiency and controlling costs. In recent years, open source asset management software has emerged as a popular solution for organizations seeking flexibility, customization, and cost-effectiveness.

QR Code Asset Tagging: Revolutionizing Asset Management and Tracking
Trends Innovations

QR Code Asset Tagging: Revolutionizing Asset Management and Tracking

QR Code Asset Tagging has emerged as a game-changing solution in the field of asset management and tracking. In today's fast-paced and technologically advanced world, organizations across various industries are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline their asset management processes, improve efficiency, and enhance productivity. With the advent of QR code technology, businesses now have a powerful tool at their disposal to revolutionize the way they manage and track their assets.

The Comprehensive Guide to Asset Tagging Systems
Asset Tracking Management

The Comprehensive Guide to Asset Tagging Systems

Asset management is a crucial aspect of any organization, regardless of its size or industry. Keeping track of valuable assets, such as equipment, machinery, or even office supplies, can be a daunting task. However, with the advancements in technology, implementing an asset tagging system has become a game-changer for efficient asset management. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of asset tagging systems, their benefits, and how to effectively implement them in your organization.

Introducing Custodians: A New Feature for Effortless Asset Management
Team Collaboration Communication

Introducing Custodians: A New Feature for Effortless Asset Management

Discover how our latest feature can help you assign team members as custodians of specific assets, promote accountability, enhance security, streamline audits, and optimize collaboration.

QR Code Scanning on Mobile Devices: A Comprehensive Guide
Qr Code Technology

QR Code Scanning on Mobile Devices: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover which mobile device manufacturers support QR code scanning via their camera apps and get a detailed overview of the top models from each brand.

The Importance of QR Code Asset Management in Business
Asset Tracking Management

The Importance of QR Code Asset Management in Business

In today's fast-paced digital age, businesses need to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to managing their physical assets. One effective way to do this is through QR code asset management. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using QR codes for asset management, how they work, and some best practices for implementing this solution in your organization.

How to Choose the Best Asset Tags for Your Equipment
Asset Tracking Management

How to Choose the Best Asset Tags for Your Equipment

One of the most important factors is the material of the asset tags. The material determines how durable, reliable, and cost-effective your asset tags will be.In this post, we will compare the different materials for asset tags and help you decide which one is best for your equipment. We will also provide a decision framework for making a selection based on your needs and budget.

What to look for when buying an asset tag or asset label (Guide)
Maintenance Repair Management

What to look for when buying an asset tag or asset label (Guide)

Asset tags and labels serve several purposes, but most importantly, they identify physical objects so that they can be easily tracked and monitored. Common uses of asset tags include inventory control in retail stores, property management, library book circulation, hospital patient care monitoring, supply chain management, IT hardware tracking, manufacturing process optimization, school student attendance, sports equipment rental, and agricultural product identification, among others.

How Shelf can help you track your golden samples easily and effectively
Asset Tracking Management

How Shelf can help you track your golden samples easily and effectively

Learn what golden samples are, why they are important for product quality, and how shelf.nu can help you track them using QR labels and your smartphone.

What are Digital Twins and how can you use them for your business?
Trends Innovations

What are Digital Twins and how can you use them for your business?

Digital twins are one of the most exciting and promising technologies in the era of digital transformation. They can help you optimize your products, processes, and systems, as well as unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth. But what exactly are digital twins and how can you use them for your business?

How to Choose the Best Asset Tracking Solution for Your Business
Asset Tracking Management

How to Choose the Best Asset Tracking Solution for Your Business

Asset tracking is a vital process for any business that owns or manages physical assets. It can help you improve your business efficiency, costs, security ,and compliance. It can also help you optimize your asset utilization ,maintenance ,and lifecycle. But choosing the best asset tracking solution for your business can be challenging. With so many options available in the market,you need to consider various factors,such as types ,features ,costs ,and benefits .That’s why we created Shelf - Asset Tracking Infrastructure for Everyone,a flexible and user-friendly platform that supports multiple types of asset tracking solutions and integrations.

Duck Pack and Track is Discontinued, What Now? Try Shelf - Duck Pack and Track Alternative
Trends Innovations

Duck Pack and Track is Discontinued, What Now? Try Shelf - Duck Pack and Track Alternative

If you were relying on Duck Pack and Track to organize your belongings, you might be aware that the service was terminated in April 2023. But don't worry, we have excellent news for you: there is a better and smarter solution in town – Shelf.

What sort of Asset Tags can you create with Shelf?
Qr Code Technology

What sort of Asset Tags can you create with Shelf?

One of the most common questions about the Shelf product is what asset tags can be generated, and we have put together a comprehensive guide to help answer this question. Our aim is to offer tags that are suitable for a wide range of assets, including monitors, headphones, roll-up banners, cables, hard drives, and even vehicles.

The Fascinating History of Asset Tags
Asset Tracking Management

The Fascinating History of Asset Tags

Asset tags are used by businesses, schools, and organizations to track and manage their physical assets. These tags typically consist of a barcode, QR code, or serial number, which can be scanned to access information about the asset, such as its location, condition, and maintenance history. In this article, we'll explore the history of asset tags and how they have evolved over time.

Introducing Shelf Sticker Studio
Trends Innovations

Introducing Shelf Sticker Studio

Talented designers who are passionate about turning your vision into reality. You can rest assured that your stickers will be one-of-a-kind and tailored to your needs.

Who should use Shelf?
Trends Innovations

Who should use Shelf?

Managing your assets can be a real headache, especially when you're dealing with a lot of items. But don't worry – Shelf is here to help! It's an asset tracking and tagging app that can make your life a whole lot easier.Wondering who would benefit the most from this app? Well, let's dive in and find out!

All you Need to Know about QR Codes
Qr Code Technology

All you Need to Know about QR Codes

QR codes are two-dimensional codes that store information in black and white squares, which can be read using a smartphone or QR code reader. They have become ubiquitous in recent years, appearing on everything from food packaging to billboards. In this article, we will explore the full timeline of QR codes, their history, who made them, what the alternatives are, and why they are so important.

Can a QR Code System Compete with Apple Tag? Comparing Features and Use Cases
Trends Innovations

Can a QR Code System Compete with Apple Tag? Comparing Features and Use Cases

Apple Tag is a new product that allows users to track and locate their personal belongings using Bluetooth and ultra-wideband technology. It works with the Find My app on iOS devices and can be attached to keys, wallets, backpacks, and more. But how does it compare to a QR code system, such as Shelf, which is a cheaper and more widely available option for adding digital content to physical things? In this post, we will compare the features and use cases of Apple Tag and Shelf, and see which one is better suited for different scenarios.

Benefits of Team Collaboration for Asset Management Efficiency and Effectiveness
Team Collaboration Communication

Benefits of Team Collaboration for Asset Management Efficiency and Effectiveness

Asset management is one of the most important components of any business. It involves keeping track of a company's physical assets – from equipment and supplies to company vehicles and beyond – and ensuring that they are properly protected and utilized. Without effective asset management, a company could be at a huge financial and operational risk.

Best Practices for Preventive Maintenance and Repair
Maintenance Repair Management

Best Practices for Preventive Maintenance and Repair

The importance of preventive maintenance and repair cannot be overstated. Not only do these activities help protect the value of physical assets, but they also reduce the likelihood of costly breakdowns and repairs. To ensure that your assets remain in top condition, it’s essential to have a preventive maintenance and repair plan in place.

Integrating Asset Disposal and Retirement Management with Asset Management Software
Asset Disposal Retirement

Integrating Asset Disposal and Retirement Management with Asset Management Software

Risk management and security of physical assets is a major concern for businesses. When it comes to managing and tracking these physical assets, asset management software is a valuable tool that helps organizations streamline the process and ensure asset security.

Types of Asset Management Risks and Security Threats
Risk Management Security

Types of Asset Management Risks and Security Threats

Asset management involves the management of physical assets, including raw materials, components, finished goods, and inventory. It is a crucially important activity in any business, as the proper management of assets can help the company remain competitive and profitable. However, asset management also carries a certain amount of risk. In this article, we will discuss the different types of asset management risks and security threats that businesses need to be aware of, and how they can protect their assets.

Benefits of Asset Management Software
Asset Tracking Management

Benefits of Asset Management Software

Asset management software can help businesses of all sizes streamline their asset management processes and maximize the value of their assets. By automating the process of tracking and managing assets, companies can save time, money, and resources. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key benefits of investing in an asset management software solution.

Best Practices for Asset Tracking
Asset Tracking Management

Best Practices for Asset Tracking

Asset tracking is an essential part of any business, regardless of size. Proper asset tracking helps organizations keep track of their assets, maximize the use of their resources, and minimize losses. In today's competitive environment, organizations need to make sure they are using the most effective asset tracking methods in order to remain competitive.

Case Studies and Success Stories of Companies using Asset Management Software Effectively
Asset Tracking Management

Case Studies and Success Stories of Companies using Asset Management Software Effectively

Asset management is an essential part of any business. It enables organizations to track, manage, and optimize their physical assets and digital resources. Effective asset management helps companies save time and money, and ensure the long-term success of their business. It is also beneficial to the environment, as it reduces waste and unnecessary consumption.

11 Tips for Implementing Asset Tracking Software
Asset Tracking Management

11 Tips for Implementing Asset Tracking Software

When it comes to managing and tracking valuable assets, asset tracking software can make life a lot easier. As a photographer or videographer, you need the right tools to track, manage, and protect your important assets. With the right asset tracking software, you can save time, maximize efficiency, and stay organized. Here are some tips for implementing asset tracking software for photographers and videographers.