Implementing the i-TOOLS (Intelligent Tool Storage System) in the Woodworking Workshop: A Quantitative Survey and Dual-Center Evaluation at Politeknik Melaka and Politeknik Merlimau

This research evaluates users’ perceptions of the i-TOOLS (Intelligent Tool Storage System) forhand tool management in the Woodworking Workshops at Politeknik Melaka (PMK) andPoliteknik Merlimau (PMM). A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed,involving 64 respondents comprising 58 Semester 1 students enrolled in the DCC10273Building Construction course and six lecturers. Data were collected using five-point Likert scalequestionnaires and analysed using descriptive frequencies and percentages. The findingsshowed that 56 out of 58 students (96.6%) agreed or strongly agreed that i-TOOLS could helpreduce hand tool loss or misplacement. In addition, all 58 students (100%) expressed positiveacceptance of returning tools to their designated storage slots after practical activities. All sixlecturers also selected “Strongly Agree” for the reported lecturer questionnaire statements,reflecting positive perceptions of the system’s potential benefits for workshop organization,student discipline, safety awareness, teaching support, and application in other workshops.Overall, the findings indicate positive user perceptions and acceptance of i-TOOLS at bothinstitutions. However, actual reductions in tool loss and replacement costs were not measured.Further evaluation using objective inventory records, time measurements, and cost data isrecommended to establish its operational impact.