Using all the asset control features of MakeLifeEasy provides benefits that go way beyond simply managing shopping lists or home inventory. Part of deciding how to use "full asset control" is to understand the results it can provide for you. Then, you use these results to solve problems
Once you get some assets and needs loaded, you view (or print) some results
to help you take action, make good decisions, and save money.
Here are the four main reports provided:
Here's how you can use MakeLifeEasy to solve specific problems you may have. The first two problems occur when you're going shopping, so you'll want to view or print your list(s) before shopping.
| Problem: | Load and Update This Data: | Use These Results: |
| Since I'm going to the store (or I'm already here), what else do I need? | (1) (Optional) Take inventory using the Home Inventory < page, (2) load any receipts (online or offline) using the Receipts < page, and (3) update inventory for the store(s) you're visiting (e.g., the drugstore, the grocery store) using, for example, the Check Asset Levels < page. | Get your Smart Shopping List < for this top folder before or during your store visit. |
| Is this a good price for this product? Should I just buy one, or stock up? | Same as above - do it for products of interest. | Get your Smart Shopping List < (with price history) before or during your store visit. |
| Am I spending too much to cover this need? | Same as above -- do it for your needs of interest (though you'd just need to record purchases -- not update inventory) | Get your Expense Details by Need report for that need. |
| How much personal property insurance should I buy? When should I increase or decrease my coverage? If I need to make a claim, how much should it be? | Same as above, and it will also help to load as many supplies as you can. They have more value than you'd think! | Run your Total Asset Values < report. |
| How can I cut my costs overall? Do I spend too much on ... gas? toys? dining out? etc.? Does my spending make sense to me based on my priorities in life? | Same as above, but try to let MakeLifeEasy manage most or all of your assets. You'll get the best data that way. | Run your Cost per Day Report < and see if your spending matches your priorities. It's fascinating! |
| Is there anything I can sell to get some cash, free up some space, reduce my clutter, and simplify my life? | Load and maintain the inventory of all your durables and apparel using the Home Inventory < page. | Run your Saleable Assets Report < |
In the near future, we'll also be solving these problems:
| Problem: | Load and Update This Data: | Use These Results: |
| What items should I stock up on? How can I spend a little cash wisely? | Same as above. The more items you let MakeLifeEasy manage, the more answers you'll get. | Run your High Profit Buys Report. |
| How can I get stores to bid on something I need? | Load a need (without loading an asset). | Create a new need, wait for stores to respond, then run your High Profit Buys Report. |