User-centred Development of a Wireless Sensor Network-based Asset Management System for Mobile Measurement Devices

Asset management systems (AMS) are associated with improvements in asset utilization and prevention of inefficient work processes in employees' daily working routine. However, even if the AMS supports the business process perfectly it will fail if it does not fulfil the users' specific needs. Despite the functionalities provided, each user - regardless of background, vocabulary, and experience - must be able to find easily and quickly all necessary asset information. One possible way realizing such a user adapted and accepted system is involving real end-users at specific times during the design process. This paper presents our approach of a user-centred development of a wireless sensor network-based asset management system including a methodology for usability testing and the results of the AMS test at the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS.