THESE days barcodes can be found on everything!
While to the naked eye they don’t tell us much, when scanned they are invaluable for quickly keeping track of what and how much of something you have and, most importantly from a manufacturing point of view, making sure that what you are using is correct.
Imagine then the benefits that could come from combining barcode scanning and manufacturing software.
As suppliers of software solutions with a manufacturing background ourselves, Grotech Data Solutions (GDS) knows the value of integrated software tools and specialises in customising options that enable systems to work together.
For small and medium sized businesses, having barcode scanned data feed automatically into your manufacturing business management system could transform the smooth running of your company, streamlining processes and saving time and money.
Here’s how:
Improved efficiency:
- Scanning barcodes is quicker and easier than recording information manually making inventory management – stock taking and updating – much faster and more efficient.
- Using WiFi technology and a fast WiFi connection, barcode scanning gives real-time updates ensuring fast and efficient order picking and receipt of incoming goods plus an accurately updated account of stock.
- Feeding scanned data into barcode stock control software helps to process and manage orders, receive and count inventory and track stock in multiple locations. It can also be integrated with accounting packages like Sage 50.
Easier to use:
The hand-held scanners come equipped with easy-to-follow instructions making them simple for all to use.
They communicate directly with barcode scanning software, simplifying processes like picking and packing highlighting when items are out of stock or damaged and enabling them to be despatched later or for alternative products to be suggested. As an item is scanned, the order in the pick and pack system is immediately checked and updated against the order in accounting software like Sage 50 enabling, once the order is complete, for it to be marked as despatched and an invoice to be generated.
Fewer errors:
Feeding directly into your manufacturing software, barcode scanning technology reduces the risk of human error traditionally associated with manual processes:
- It streamlines inventory management;
- It prevents a lot of common errors such as ensuring the correct items are invoiced;
- With errors displayed directly on the scanner, mistakes can be quickly rectified and any highlighted operational issues can be resolved.
Barcode / manufacturing integrated systems eliminate the need for separate inventory and barcode software and the real-time information and tracking element means fewer mistakes in stock control.
Customer satisfaction:
Barcode scanning = faster manufacturing accuracy and effectiveness + fewer errors and quickly resolved issues. Result: A better customer experience.
A happy customer is more likely to return and improving your business’ reputation also attracts new customers.
An alternative to barcodes is the use of touchscreen devices allowing the user to select items without the need for barcodes. GDS software provides both options for many processes so even if you don’t think barcodes are right for your business, GDS may still have the right solution for you.
Like the sound of all this? To find out more, or for a free web demo, contact us here.
