Hmmm ..... Interesting thread. I suppose the main reason for an inventory is for insurance purposes in case of theft. In my case, the only inventory i have is a a stockist on my blog (
Stock list. )
Other than that, I can check on my goods stock when I have a running session and my freight management program tells me where each item of goods stock should be located. if something is missing, it's probably sitting on the repair shelf in the workshop. Locos are easier to spot, there's a gap on the shelf in the living room if a loco is missing.
i'm intrigued. Why do people need a database or spreadsheet? I have 70 items of goods stock, 6 coaches and 20 locos, but I'm sure I'd know almost immediately if something was missing.
rik
I'd like to answer the questions.
First, I applaud you in being able to instantly know if in your 96 items one item is missing, you sir are indeed way above average, or at least way above my mental capability... not only could I not tell immediately, but in my case, since there are 3 different locations to store items, it would probably require x-ray vision for me to equal that capability.
More seriously, I use a database, so I can easily search for complex criteria, for example, now that Bachmann does sell replacement 2 axle motor blocks for Aristo locos, a simple query will list up all my locos that have the old style blocks that could stand replacement.
Another thing that I use is being able to list "sets" that I want to complete, for example different road numbers of passenger cars that are hard to come by, easy to do.
Another use is what cabinet the loco or car is in, since I have 5 rolling cases of trains plus 2 more locations. Again, I do not have the mental power to remember all locations of all cars, and I do not want to hunt around.
Another use is that I have several tables in the database, linked to the master one. One of these tables lists modifications and servicing, so it helps me check on when I last lubricated a loco, or the current stage of conversion, for example, lighting upgrades completed and planned, coupler conversions, lowering, and other improvements.
So I can give you a plethora of reasons why an individual would keep track of this information, and moreover put that information to use to better their enjoyment of the hobby.
Greg