What is a barcode?

A barcode is a small image made up of bars and spaces that is machine-readable representation of numerals and characters that encodes data into the computer system. It is applied to products as a means of quick identification.

What is with the barcode?

This group of bars is composed of coding standards, manufacturer identity, and product stock-keeping unit (SKU). Product SKU is composed of unique product identification number and its variation.

How it works

A barcode encodes information in a visual pattern read by an optical scanner. The scanner translates the group of bars into a string. This string is formatted and can only be read by the inventory system and POS. Usually, it has industrial standard value, but some of the barcodes are modified by retailers with their custom coding.

How does it help?

Using barcode in stores can help to solve problems about tracking, updating prices, and inventory of stocks, because you can keep a centralized record on a computer system that tracks products.

How does it help businesses?

Barcode system allows you to process data much faster than the manual method since using a scanner is done with a single scan. Also, information about inventory or sales can be available real-time.

Accuracy – To rely on a barcode system gives more accurate data than the manual system which is prone to errors.

Flexibility – Using the standard barcode made by the manufacturer aligns the inventory system to standards. This gives the system the ability to extend to more functions that come from the integration of other systems that the product identity is required.

Integrity – The consistent usage of barcodes gives the inventory system and sales report data integrity. Convenience enforces the usage of the features, that’s why input alteration is less likely to happen.

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