Effectively running and maintaining a successful warehouse in the modern supply chain is increasingly challenging. New processes and innovations continue to reinvent the world of logistics.
Implementing something as simple as barcode scanning can completely transform your inventory management system.
Barcoding
Barcodes have developed from an early innovation to a nearly mandatory tool for inventory optimization and management. Their design offers the storage of information in a compact and easy to access form. Just a simple code scan can provide access to a wealth of information in the time it takes to blink.
These systems require barcode labels or tags to be affixed to bins or individual inventory parts. In addition, a scanner must be used to log information.
Software
Coupled with inventory management software, the codes become an extremely effective tool. Modern software options are simple to use, but powerful enough to accomplish complex tasks.
E-commerce platforms can be updated in real-time with current inventory levels. While most systems will show you when inventory is low, some will even re-order goods from suppliers when inventory levels dip beneath a specified threshold.
Access to Information
Quality of information is even more important than quantity. While having a ton of data at your fingertips might sound great, if it is not accurate then it is useless. Decisions are only as effective as the data and information they are based on.
Maintaining clear and accurate records in any inventory or asset management is vital to the success of the system. Faulty or inaccurate information defeats the purpose.
Conclusion
The only way to stay current in the constantly evolving supply chain is to adapt. Adopting technologies which will improve efficiency and provide highly detailed and accurate data is a must. Barcode scanning is a must for current organizations.
The key to adopting new systems and supply chain technologies is to ensure they fit your organization. It doesn’t make sense to implement a new system if it will simply cause more problems than the utility it will provide.
John Corbin is the Content Manager at Metal Marker Mfg., a manufacturer of custom identification solutions. He maintains an active blog which highlights industry info, provides key insights, and details the many ways organizations can improve their processes by integrating metal ID tags. From supply chain tips to the basics of industrial labeling, the blog covers a wide range of topics. Find out more: https://www.metalmarkermfg.com/blog/