Shelf vs Hippo CMMS
Hippo CMMS Alternative
Compare Hippo CMMS and Shelf to understand when a full CMMS is needed—and when a lighter equipment tracking workflow is a better operational fit.
Hippo CMMS Alternative
Hippo CMMS is a maintenance and facility management system focused on work orders, preventive maintenance, and asset service history. Some teams evaluate alternatives when they need simpler equipment tracking rather than full CMMS structure.
Overview: Hippo CMMS vs Shelf
Hippo CMMS belongs to the CMMS category—built for work orders, asset maintenance scheduling, and service documentation.
Shelf belongs to the equipment tracking and operations category—built for check-outs, custody, bookings, and equipment movement between people and places.
Both serve different operational needs. The right choice depends on whether maintenance management or equipment movement is your primary challenge.
Where Shelf Takes a Different Approach
1. Lightweight, Workflow-First Design
Shelf is optimized for daily equipment operations:
- Quick check-outs and returns
- Location updates across sites
- Kit and accessory handling
- Custody tracking with automatic logging
No complex configuration required—teams start tracking immediately.
2. QR-Based Daily Operations
Shelf uses QR codes as the primary interface. Scan to check out, return, or transfer custody—all in seconds.
See: Custody
See: Location Tracking
3. Built-In Reservations
Shelf includes conflict-free booking for shared equipment. Users see real-time availability and reserve items ahead of time.
See: Bookings
4. Multi-Department Use
Education, IT, media, and operations teams can all use Shelf with workspace separation—no complicated setup.
See: Workspaces
When Shelf Is a Better Fit
Shelf may be a better choice when your focus is equipment movement:
- Shared AV or IT equipment with frequent check-outs
- Student or rotating staff environments
- Field tools moving between locations and crews
- Teams wanting simple tracking without CMMS administration
When Hippo CMMS May Be the Better Fit
Hippo CMMS may be a better choice when maintenance is central:
- Facility teams needing structured work orders
- Environments with recurring preventive maintenance schedules
- Operations requiring detailed service records and compliance documentation
Case Studies
See how teams use Shelf for equipment operations:
- CES Utility Solutions — $70K Equipment Recovery
- Fabel Film — Eliminating Double Bookings
- Eastern Michigan University — Theatre Equipment Management
- ResQ Contact Center — Improved Accountability
Related Solutions
Ready to organize your assets?
Join thousands of teams who trust Shelf to manage their physical assets. Start your free trial today.