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Lost & Found Management Guide

Complete guide to managing lost and found items effectively

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about reporting lost items, managing found items, and using Foundly's AI matching system effectively.

Reporting Items

For Lost Items

  1. 1
    Log into your account at app.foundlyhq.com
  2. 2
    Navigate to 'Report Lost Item'
  3. 3
    Fill in item description (be as detailed as possible)
  4. 4
    Upload photos from multiple angles
  5. 5
    Specify exact location and time
  6. 6
    Submit and wait for match notifications

For Found Items

  1. 1
    Go to your institution dashboard at app.foundlyhq.com
  2. 2
    Click 'Report Found Item'
  3. 3
    Enter item details and upload photos
  4. 4
    Specify where and when it was found
  5. 5
    The system will automatically check for matches
  6. 6
    Review potential matches and verify ownership

The Matching Process

1

AI Analysis

Our AI analyzes item descriptions, photos, location, and timestamps to identify potential matches.

2

Match Notification

Both parties receive notifications when a potential match is found, including match confidence score.

3

Verification

Institution staff verify ownership through receipts, photos, serial numbers, or specific questions.

4

Collection

Once verified, arrangements are made for the item to be collected or returned to the owner.

Best Practices

Use Clear Photos

Take photos from multiple angles. Include close-ups of distinctive features, brand logos, or serial numbers.

Detailed Descriptions

Include brand, model, colour, size, condition, and any unique identifiers. The more detail, the better the match.

Specific Locations

Be as specific as possible about where the item was lost or found. Include building, floor, room number if applicable.

Accurate Timestamps

Provide the exact date and approximate time. This helps narrow down potential matches significantly.

Verification Tips for Institutions

  • • Ask for proof of purchase (receipt) when available
  • • Request a photo of the person with the item to verify ownership
  • • Verify serial numbers or unique identifiers if present
  • • Ask specific questions about the item (when purchased, where purchased, distinctive features)
  • • Follow your institution's verification policies consistently

Related Guides

Getting StartedFAQReports & Analytics