Maximize Tool ROI: Track Utilization with New ToolWorks Dashboard Widgets
Start Tracking NowYour company invests in tools to get work done—whether it's building infrastructure, maintaining equipment, or supporting field operations. But how do you know if your tools are actually being used?
With the new Tool Utilization widgets in the ToolWorks Dashboard, you can now track two key metrics that help answer that question: Deployment % and Assignment %.
What Is Tool Utilization?
Tool Utilization tells you how many of your tools are actively in use, rather than sitting idle in storage. Knowing this helps you:
- Improve tool allocation and planning
- Avoid over-purchasing or underutilizing equipment
- Justify tool budgets with data
ToolWorks now makes it easier than ever to monitor utilization with two powerful indicators.
📍 Deployment Utilization (% Deployed to Job Site)
This metric shows the percentage of tools that are currently deployed to a job site.
Why it matters: If a tool is at a job site, it's likely being used. A low deployment rate could indicate tools are gathering dust in the warehouse.
Recommended range: Most companies aim for 60%–80% deployment. This allows enough buffer for backups or emergency needs while ensuring most tools are in action.
👤 Assignment Utilization (% Assigned to Users)
This shows the percentage of tools assigned to individual users (like technicians, foremen, or field workers).
Why it matters: Assigned tools are traceable, accountable, and usually in active use. This helps reduce tool loss and improve responsibility.
Recommended range: Again, 60%–80% utilization is a healthy benchmark—high enough to indicate good usage, but not so high that there's no flexibility for reassignments.
Use These Metrics to Take Action
With these two widgets side-by-side in your dashboard, you can spot underused tools, reassign idle equipment, or adjust purchasing decisions. If your Deployment % or Assignment % is consistently low, it’s a sign to investigate.
Pro tip: Combine these insights with ToolWorks reports and notifications to identify patterns in tool usage over time.
Final Thoughts
Tool Utilization is about more than numbers—it’s about getting the most value from your investments. By keeping an eye on Deployment % and Assignment %, you can ensure your tools are where they should be: in the hands of people getting the job done.
Ready to Maximize Tool ROI?
Get started with a free two-week trial of ToolWorks and experience the time-saving power of smart, intuitive inventory management.