Automated inventory tracking system prototype in cloud

In this paper we investigate possible solutions for alleviating retail manufacturers of logistical concerns by using inexpensive cell phones with WAP and WiFi capabilities, low resolution digital cameras, and open source applications for web hosts in the cloud to store and process business information. The proposed inventory tracking system prototype is aimed at the company's agents whose responsibilities are to track and manage the retailer's merchandise as it flows between suppliers and consumers. The system can eliminate inefficiencies in the process of tracking inventory and orders processing, while doing so with minimal economic cost by utilizing inexpensive cell phones from one side and inexpensive web hosting in the cloud on the other side. This means to use inexpensive options in terms of both hardware and software, and services in the cloud for data processing and storage as well as to automate the process of physically tracking inventory so less time is spent on this particular task. Such a system with further development can also address business critical question of monitoring sales personnel adherence to the assigned sales routes, collection of other information from the retail outlets (products distribution, pricing, shelving, out-of-stock situations etc.). There are several areas where the proposed solution can be used: on-shelf availability check and inventory calculation (used both by retailers' personnel and by the manufacturer's sales force); orders taking (to automate the process); retail audit (used by the specialized commercial or governmental agencies) and by consumer protection rights agencies. From the technical point of view the goal is to investigate the available open source solutions so they may be integrated with a new proposed system for business utilization. The paper outlines the design of the proposed system and the prototype implementation results, as well as our problems during prototype design and development, and our future plans.