Although they are usually referred to as “package tracking systems”, a good tracking system can be used as mail tracking software, an asset tracking system, and even as a system to track stages of a process. There are many instances where recording a chain of custody will be beneficial, and new applications come up frequently where a bar code scanner is all you need to keep crucial information.
Inbound Package Tracking: The first application for tracking software was to automate the receiving process for parcels and packages arriving at a location. By maintaining a chain of custody for each person that signs for that package, package tracking systems are very effective in preventing loss.
Mail Tracking and Processing: It's only logical to track important mail such as certified items. In these environments, sheer volume is often the hurdle – it takes time to sort and deliver mail to the proper person when it's all being done individually by hand. Colleges have started using student mail tracking systems as an important time saver.
Asset Tracking: In spite of the seemingly endless regulations a business might have for procuring new items such as computers or furniture, it's amazing how often the process stops once an item has been received. Expensive and important business assets should be tracked, and a simple bar code tracking system is usually all it takes to prevent theft and loss.
Process Tracking: This is the newest and, in my opinion, most innovative application for a web based tracking system. Commercial repair facilities (such as contractors for repairing Boeing engines or telecommunications devices) can not track the rate of progress and other details of the process, but can also allow their customers to log in and check progress without calling on the phone. Laboratories can keep doctors updated of lab results using the same methods. The key is a cloud based tracking system, which allows global visibility to an entire company of anything they want to track.
More applications are coming up all the time. Keep checking this site for regular updates on innovative uses of web based tracking systems.