What's the difference between the Supplies & Station modules?

Both the Station module and the Supplies module can be used to track consumable items in PSTrax (e.g. EMS supplies, station supplies, etc.). But there are differences depending on what your needs are.

Summary
This guide outlines the key differences between tracking EMS or station supplies using the Station Module versus the Inventory Module in PSTrax. Both modules support tracking consumable supplies, but they function differently depending on your department's needs, pricing considerations, and how detailed you want your tracking and reporting to be.

Instructions
PSTrax offers two different methods for tracking expendable and consumable supplies: the Station Module and the Inventory Module. While both work well for different departments, each has its own advantages.

Station Module Overview

1. Checklist Format
   Supplies are listed as line items within station checks (e.g., EMS inventory). You can assign bins, shelves, or storage areas as units and set up scheduled checks (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.).

2. Log What Needs Attention
   Crews check off items during inspections and only add notes if a restock is needed or an item is expiring. You can pre-fill max and reorder levels as plain text for reference, but users do not enter quantities—just notes for reorders.

3. Logging Items
   After entering notes (e.g., “Need 2 OPA kits” or “2 items expiring”), users click Log All Checked Items. This submits the event and rolls it forward to the next scheduled check.

4. Reviewing Logged Notes
   To view logged items, go to Vehicle and Station → Logs and Reports. Filter by EMS inventory, date range, and station to see what was noted. Clicking on the Notes column will surface your “shopping list.”

Inventory Module Overview

1. Real-Time Updates
   Inventory checks update quantities in real time—adding, transferring, or removing items from your system.

2. Container-Based Setup
   You’ll create containers (e.g., “EMS Supply Room”), assign supplies to them, and set intervals for inventory checks. Each container can include advanced item tracking, such as expiration dates, lot numbers, and quantity on hand.

3. Automatic Alerts
   If an item drops below its minimum level, an alert will be generated. These alerts are consolidated so users don’t receive individual alerts for each item—they’ll receive one that lists everything that’s low.

4. Inventory Logs and Visibility
   Use the Inventory List to view current stock, expiration dates, and par level statuses. All transfers (e.g., restocking from a master warehouse) automatically update your tracked quantities.

Which Module Should I Use?

• Use the Station Module if you're looking for a simple checklist format that crews can complete quickly. It’s ideal if your department doesn’t need real-time tracking or detailed inventory history.

• Use the Inventory Module if you want more precision: quantity tracking, expiration alerts, and automated reporting. Note: this is a paid add-on module.

Need Help Deciding?
We’re happy to walk through your current workflow and help you determine which setup is best. Reach out any time at help@pstrax.com.