A comprehensive method and
system is provided for managing bulk and non-bulk material and assets using
radio frequency and other asset identification devices, distributed
mobile computing systems, centralized data storage environments, and
client-
server based computing. In particular, a process has been designed and to manage shipment items from businesses and third parties to customer designated locations. Components of this
system include electronic asset identification devices, a central data repository, a
mobile computing environment and associated
software applications supporting a
client-
server system or n-tiered computer system. The
mobile computing environment includes
software which enables users to physically locate assets, view asset information, and modify such information to reflect current asset status. This information may then be exchanged and synchronized across the n-tiered computer system. Additionally, various personnel associated with the shipping arrangement may have access to the available information over a
computer network such as
the Internet. In this manner, such personnel can easily determine the status of various shipments and also promptly act on information collected during
any status updates, thereby expediting the resolution of any potential exceptions which may arise. The electronic asset identification devices may be further configured to include various types of sensors. The devices may then operate to process and store sensor output information for subsequent
relay to users via the mobile computing environment or other means.