nanco
IoT-powered inventory tracking
Smart inventory management system for small businesses.
nanco is a smart inventory management system designed specifically for small businesses that need a simple, cost-effective way to track inventory. The system combines a minimalist IoT hardware device with a cloud-based web and mobile application, making it easy to digitize inventory tracking operations that were previously done manually.
The Problem
Small businesses, particularly in retail, apparel manufacturing, and e-commerce, struggle with inventory management. Traditional solutions like handheld terminals and RFID systems are expensive and overly complex for their needs. Many businesses still rely on paper and pen, leading to data entry errors, lack of real-time visibility, and difficulties in making data-driven decisions.
The Solution
nanco provides a radically simple approach: “counting” focused inventory management. The system consists of two main components:
IoT Device
A dedicated IoT device with an intuitive interface:
- LCD display showing current inventory count
- Only two buttons: (+) for adding items and (-) for removing items
- Wi-Fi module for cloud synchronization
- Battery-powered for flexible placement
- Patented visual light communication for initial smartphone setup (no Bluetooth pairing required)
The device is designed to be hands-free and can be mounted anywhere – warehouses, retail shelves, or offices. Simply match the displayed number with the physical count, and press the appropriate button to update the cloud.
Cloud Application
A web and mobile application that provides:
- Real-time inventory dashboard
- Historical tracking and trend analysis
- Multi-location management
- Data export and reporting
- Works standalone or as a supplement to existing inventory systems
Development Journey
nanco was developed through the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Technology Research Institute’s public research collaboration program. The project emerged from real-world experience – the team operated both an IT business and an apparel business, experiencing firsthand the challenges of managing inventory from production through distribution.
Key Features
Simplified Operation
- Paper and pen replacement that’s easier to use
- No workflow changes required for staff
- Hands-free operation possible
- Immediate learning curve
Flexible Deployment
- Works anywhere with Wi-Fi
- Suitable for warehouses, retail stores, offices
- Can supplement existing inventory systems for areas that are still manual
- Easy integration with other business systems
Data-Driven Insights
- Digitize previously manual inventory data
- Track inventory trends and history
- Enable data-based planning and analysis
- Reduce reliance on intuition alone
Impact and Benefits
For Small Businesses
- Digitization: Transform manual counting into digital data
- Analysis: Make decisions based on data, not just experience
- Flexibility: Deploy anywhere Wi-Fi is available
Use Cases
- Small apparel manufacturers tracking materials and finished goods
- Retail stores managing shelf inventory
- E-commerce businesses with warehousing needs
- Offices tracking supplies and equipment
- Workshops monitoring tool usage
Future Development
Following successful hardware production, the focus has shifted to software development:
- Enhanced analytics and reporting features
- Integration capabilities with other business systems
- Web service improvements for device-free operation
- Marketing automation and business development
The system aims to become the foundation for small businesses to begin their digital transformation journey, particularly those in manufacturing and retail who haven’t yet digitized their operations.
Target Market
nanco targets small businesses across multiple sectors:
- Small-scale apparel manufacturers
- Town factories and workshops
- Retail stores with inventory tracking needs
- Offices requiring supply management
- E-commerce businesses expanding from online sales
The goal is to provide a simple entry point for businesses to begin managing their inventory digitally, serving as a foundation for broader digital transformation efforts.
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Credits
Awards
- Good Design Award(2023)