Most manufacturing companies have recently discovered that fixed asset management should be a key part of the success of the business enterprise. It is now realised that fixed asset management leads to economy of production and operation. This in turn can to increase in profits of 10 to 15 per cent, which cannot be ignored as it makes a significant contribution to the bottom line of the business.

Naturally in fixed asset management, the assets responsible for production, research and development etc., which have direct bearing on the productivity of the business, need to be managed more closely. There must be constant monitoring on the maintenance aspect to prolong the useful life of the asset. Even a movable asset like a vehicle needs proper maintenance. Otherwise without regular running and maintenance the vehicle can soon become corroded and useless.

Every category of assets needs a different focus of management. Fixed assets need regular maintenance to ensure normal life of the assets depending on the wear and tear on the asset. Adequate planning is also necessary for building up financial reserves over the life of the asset for replacing the fixed asset at the end of its useful life. Thus the new plant and machinery can be ordered well in time to replace the old one.

Management also has to weigh the advantage of replacing the plant and machinery and other production assets or continuing to maintain the present production assets. They also must consider from time to time whether the asset has become obsolete owing to new technological advances. In recent times, technology has advanced at a rapid pace and management has to be vigilant on this issue to avoid being left behind by competitors. Asset management also includes adequate insurance to cover any extraordinary losses due to fire and natural disasters.

Asset management tracking is vital in large manufacturing plant and utilities. Integration of asset management with raw material and maintenance procurement systems as well as financial systems and their cost versus savings benefits must be monitored on a day-by-day basis. Senior financial officers must therefore be involved in asset management.

To assist company management, there are a number of established consultant companies having qualified manpower whose help will be beneficial for asset management. They can be very effective to audit present practices and suggest best practices, problem solving and action plans. It may be well worth the expense to hire established consultants to improve performance.

Asset management data can be computerised to enable management to chalk out strategies on an overall basis. Integration of asset management systems with other financial systems would give better picture of whole operation of the enterprise. This will enable various key officials to give their timely input to top management in order to devise suitable plans. For example, government may come out with special tax incentives for certain industries to invest in fixed assets. In a scenario where management is monitoring and managing fixed assets, the Finance Manager may quickly recommend purchase of new fixed assets to take advantage of the government’s tax incentive for that business.