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What are 2 reasons why it is a good idea to use barcodes and barcode scanners in a library?

10 Apr.,2024

 

Many warehouses can benefit from the full spectrum of bar code applications, but you should do the necessary detail cost benefit studies to determine your Return On Investment (ROI). Our recommendation is to begin with the basics and move to more advanced applications if you have the luxury and desire to use a phased in approach. 

 

The following are some of the benefits that can be gained with the use of bar code technology in the warehouse.

  1. Fast and accurate capture of data reduces paperwork and chance of errors.  Your objective should be to eliminate manual clerical, time consuming tasks.  The bar code data capture and positive confirmation of transactions will significantly reduce errors from keying from manual systems in receiving, put away, replenishment, picking, inventory control, etc.
  2. Reduced labor costs.  Some savings will be realized from clerical hours by eliminating paperwork keying.  Other savings will come from faster picking throughput, resulting in less headcount needed.
  3. Timely information.  It should be noted that not all bar code systems or functions are necessarily real time, but rather near real time, utilizing batch updates every 15 minutes for example.    Examples include product receiving reports, labor hours capture by function, cycle counting that may alert you to warehouse back orders, etc. But note you have to have information systems to support these functions.
  4. Productivity measurement.  Accurate and timely data capture ability to track individual and department function performance and posting individual results will increase productivity. 
  5. Reduced training time.  Warehouse processes using bar coding are often easier to teach new employees because it streamlines and clearly defines processes and best practices and more importantly your company’s warehouse standard operating procedures.  The implementation of bar coding requires standardization and disciple of processes which is a huge benefit.
  6. Better decision making.  This culminates in the most accurate and timely data capture you can gain to better utilize your inventory and people assets.  You will not be  dependent on individual managers to collect data in their timeframes and with their methods.  You can implement standardization processes of how warehouse department managers plan and control work.

Bar Code Technology Issues to Consider

Although there are many benefits attainable through bar code technology, there are a few key issues and concerns that should be recognized in making decisions as to how to utilize the technology. A few of these issues are as follows:

  1. Many warehouse operations are based on having individual selling units bar coded by the manufacturer. If they are not, they must be relabeled in the warehouse which can be a costly process. In order to have vendors or manufacturers apply bar code labels, some type of Vendor Compliance process is required. This can be a sizeable task to implement and maintain.
  2. The labeling of all locations with bar code labels can be a time consuming and expensive process. Don’t assume that this will happen easily or quickly.
  3. If your business consists of a few items and relatively few orders, the cost and effort to implement the technology may not be justified. Make sure the ROI is calculated and considered before jumping into any technology.
  4. The acquisition and implementation cost of equipment and backbone infrastructure can be significant.
  5. Generally, there is a requirement to have some type or level of Warehouse Management System in place to fully utilize the concept. 
    Bar code systems of themselves for example to not have labor management systems; whereas a warehouse management system with bar code may have a labor management module.
  6. Remember the bar code technology requirements to utilize the advanced technologies (e.g. Pick to Light and Voice Picking).  The evaluation of these requirements and costs should be completed before any final
    decisions are made with these technologies.
  7. Take into account the implementation tasks, training and culture shift these technologies may require in your operation.  Several years ago we saw a large multichannel retailer assume they could take their first bar code inventory to initialize the inventory for their WMS implementation at the same time.  The inventory process and re-ticketing was a disaster and therefore the warehouse management system implementation failed. Another example is if your center relies on “tribal knowledge” to know where products are located rather than bar code bin/slot locations, anticipate and train to overcome resistance and problems with picking, inventory, put away etc.

Updated February 19, 2024

 

When you think of barcode scanning, your weekly shopping run to the grocery store might be the first thing that comes to mind. It’s such a routine part of our life that barcode scanning may seem like an unsophisticated form of tracking, but the benefits of barcode scanning should not be overlooked.

In today's fast-paced world, efficiency and accuracy are paramount, and barcode scanning has proven to be revolutionary. From streamlining operations to enhancing accuracy, this simple yet effective tool has innovated industries from retail to healthcare. Let’s take a closer look at barcode scanning and specifically highlight its impact on various industry sectors.

 

Understanding barcode scanning

 

Before we dive into the benefits of barcode scanning, it's essential to understand what it is and how it works. A barcode scanner uses light to read barcodes - a series of parallel lines with varying widths and spacing that represent data. The scanner decodes this data into numbers or letters which can then be processed by a computer system.

 

The benefits of barcode scanning

 

Barcode scanning improves data management and accessibility while reducing costs and increasing productivity. Let’s take a closer look at the many benefits of barcode scanning.

 

Enhanced efficiency

 

One of the most significant benefits of barcode scanning is improved efficiency. Manual data entry is time-consuming. With barcode scanning, businesses can quickly capture and process information with minimal errors, leading to increased productivity and freeing up employees for more meaningful work. Using a barcode system also reduces employee training time as it takes only minutes to master a hand-held scanner instead of a cumbersome inventory or pricing procedure. Additionally, once a barcode is scanned, the data is available almost instantaneously.

 

Cost-effective

 

By eliminating the need for manual data entry, labor costs can be reduced significantly. Additionally, because barcodes are inexpensive to print and do not require special training to use, they offer an affordable solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations.

 

Improved inventory management

 

Barcode scanning provides real-time inventory updates, allowing businesses to accurately track their stock levels. This not only prevents overstocking or understocking but also helps in making informed business decisions.

Companies in virtually any industry will recognize ways to improve their businesses with barcode scanning. We’ll take a closer look at healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and logistics to understand how their current operations can be enhanced with label printing and barcode scanning.

 

The benefits of barcode scanning in Healthcare

 

In the healthcare sector, the implementation of barcode scanning has significantly improved patient care, medication management, and overall operational efficiency. Barcode scanning on patient wristbands, medications, and medical equipment allows healthcare professionals to access patient information accurately and quickly, reducing the risk of errors and improving patient outcomes.

Medication errors are a critical concern in healthcare, and barcode scanning helps mitigate this risk. By scanning barcodes on medication packaging, healthcare providers can verify the right medication, dosage, and patient information, ensuring that the correct treatment is administered. This not only improves patient safety but also reduces liability for healthcare institutions.

Uses for barcode scanning in Healthcare

  • Patient identification wristbands
  • Lab specimen labels
  • Employee identification
  • IV and blood bag labels
  • Pharmacy prescription labels

The benefits of barcode scanning in Retail

 

Barcode scanning has revolutionized the retail landscape, offering retailers a powerful tool for inventory management, sales tracking, and customer satisfaction. One of the primary advantages is the speed at which transactions can be processed. With a simple scan, product details are instantly retrieved, minimizing checkout times, and reducing queues. This not only enhances the overall shopping experience but also increases customer satisfaction.

Barcode scanning also facilitates accurate inventory management. Retailers can track stock levels in real-time, ensuring that shelves are well-stocked, reducing the likelihood of overstocking or empty shelves. This leads to optimized supply chain management and helps businesses avoid unnecessary costs associated with excess inventory or lost sales due to product unavailability.

Uses for barcode scanning in Retail

  • Buy online and pick up in-store labels
  • Mobile point-of-sale receipts
  • Deli food nutrition labels
  • Shipping labels
  • Loyalty tracking

The benefits of barcode scanning in Manufacturing

 

In the manufacturing sector, barcode scanning plays a pivotal role in optimizing production processes and supply chain management. By assigning unique barcodes to each product or component, manufacturers can easily track the movement of items through various stages of production. This real-time visibility allows for better planning, forecasting, and resource allocation.

Barcode scanning also aids in quality control. Manufacturers can scan barcodes to verify that the correct components are used at each stage of production, reducing the likelihood of defects and ensuring the final product meets quality standards. This not only enhances product quality but also minimizes waste and rework costs.

Uses for barcode scanning in Manufacturing

  • Compliance labels
  • Asset tracking labels
  • Field service labels
  • Equipment maintenance labels
  • Picking, packing, and shipping labels

The benefits of barcode scanning in Transportation and Logistics

 

Efficient logistics and supply chain management are crucial for the success of any business, and barcode scanning has become indispensable in this regard. By using barcodes to label and track shipments, logistics companies can streamline the entire supply chain process, from warehousing to transportation and delivery.

Barcodes enable real-time tracking of shipments, providing accurate information on the location and status of goods. This enhances visibility and transparency throughout the supply chain, allowing companies to identify and address potential issues promptly. The result is improved delivery accuracy, reduced lead times, and increased customer satisfaction.

Uses for barcode scanning in Logistics

  • Picking and packing labels
  • Shipping and receiving labels
  • Inventory management
  • Baggage tracking
  • Proof of delivery

Utilizing barcode scanning in your own organization

 

The benefits of barcode scanning are undeniable – from enhancing efficiency and accuracy to improving inventory management and reducing costs. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative uses for barcode scanning. Whether you're running a retail store or a hospital, embracing this technology could significantly enhance your operations and provide a better experience for your customers or patients.

If you're looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance accuracy in your business or healthcare facility, consider implementing barcode scanning technology – it could be the innovation you've been looking for!

 

As part of our managed print service program, EO Johnson carries label printers and barcode scanning equipment to fit every use and capacity, including industrial label printers, desktop label printers, and mobile label printers. Our extensive assortment of Zebra and Canon products will keep critical operations running efficiently. Contact us to incorporate label printing and barcode scanning into your comprehensive managed print strategy and learn more about our full line of card printers, RFID printers, thermal label printers, inkjet label printers, handheld mobile computers, and barcode scanners.

What are 2 reasons why it is a good idea to use barcodes and barcode scanners in a library?

Benefits of Barcode Scanning in Various Sectors

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