Technology has come a long way especially when it comes to processing sales and keeping tabs on inventory.
Barcode scanning was designed to make sales transactions smooth and easy for both customers and the sales associate.
It is meant to automate the whole sales process from identifying the item, item details, price, discounts, and other important information which is then relayed through a readable format like a tablet or computer screen.
To fully understand the function of barcode scanning, we need to understand its essential components and what they do:
1). Decoder – interprets the analog signal and validates the bar code data and converts it into readable text. The decoder turns the barcodes into usable context.
2). Illumination System – usually a red light that will help the sensor read the barcode clearly so it can be processed and decoded.
3). Sensor – This detects the reflected light from the illumination system and generates an analog signal to the decoder.
For the barcode scanner to function, you will need BARCODES for it to read.
A barcode is a machine-readable code that consists of numbers and a pattern of parallel lines in different widths that are assigned to identify a product or item.
It contains information about a certain product or item like the price and weight of the product, date of manufacture and expiry, name of the manufacturer etc.
Every product has a unique bar code. Did you know that not one barcode is the same anywhere in the world?
Let’s take a look now at the different functions of barcode scanners and what they mean for your business.
Faster Sales Processing and Transactions
Bar code scanners take away the slow and error-prone process of manually keying in item codes, quantity, price, etc.
What usually takes 10-20 seconds, sometimes more, to key in will take only one second with a bar code scanner.
A full grocery basket that usually takes almost 30 minutes to manually key in, takes only 5 to 10 minutes with a barcode scanner, maybe even less.
Inventory Management
This is one of the easiest ways to organise, manage, and keep track of your inventory.
By labelling each item, each box, even each shelf with a barcode, it will help you to keep track of what goes where. It will also let you know how many products you have left.
Doing an inventory count has never been this easy. You can simply scan the bar codes in your boxes instead of manually totalling up your inventory with a pen, paper and calculator.
You can also use this when you are updating inventory when you receive new stock.
Keeping Tracks of Receipts
You can assign a barcode at the bottom of your receipts as a way to store information for a certain transaction so it is easier to retrieve information in case there are complaints, transactional issues, special audits, etc.
The barcode information can include the register used for that specific transaction, name of the cashier, item details including price and quantity, method of payment and many others.
This is a practical method of sales processing because it makes it easier to retrieve transactional information. All you need to do is scan the barcode to get all the necessary information.
Other Functions
Barcode scanners are used in a variety of ways. Concert tickets and events use barcodes on their tickets so tickets need only be scanned to validate them and reject counterfeits.
Some bars or special events use barcodes to mark their patrons’ arms so they can go in and out of the event without hassle.
Modern technology has changed the face of barcode scanning and elevated its functionality. There are many ways you can use and take advantage of modern barcode scanning.
When choosing the right barcode scanners for your business, it’s important to consult with a professional so they can help you get the right machine for your needs.
If you would like to know more about the best stocktake software and how the right set of software and point of sale systems could help you, give us a call.
ASP Microcomputers are the market leader when it comes to the development of customised and packaged solutions.
This includes Inventory Management, Portable Barcode Readers, Supply Chain Management, Time and Attendance and Asset Tracking to name but a few.
ASP Microcomputers is here to help you run your operations in a smooth and convenient manner by providing you with the right equipment for your company needs.
Contact us so we can sit down and discuss your goals, needs, and business structure.
Armed with this information, we can help determine exactly what equipment you need to achieve success.
Please call us today on 03 9578 7600 or 1800 061 642 or contact us through our contact page.
