Using QR Codes in Enterprise Inventory Management
A QR code, which stands for "Quick Response," is a two-dimensional code created by Denso Wave in 1994. The main difference between a standard barcode and a QR code is that QR codes can contain more information both vertically and horizontally, and they can be read in any direction, while barcodes can only be read horizontally.
Furthermore, QR codes can store diverse and multiple data types, such as videos, images, web addresses, PDF documents, and much more, making them particularly useful for inventory management due to the flexibility of information they can contain. In contrast, barcodes can only contain numerical product values.
How are QR codes integrated into inventory management systems?
In database management systems, it's often possible to create inventory management systems based on QR codes that include digital information about a product, including model number, serial number, place of manufacture, date of production, and other verification data.
To access information about a specific product in the database, a user can create QR codes containing URLs that lead to unique records or product data after scanning using a smartphone. On the other hand, to access general database information, a user can create a QR code for a URL that provides access to the entire database. This QR code can be placed on the external packaging of the product or even on the product itself for end-user access. In inventory and production systems, this QR code will contain information about the product as well as its history of movement, ensuring traceability throughout the supply chain. API integration for working with QR codes in your system is also possible.
Why are QR codes ideal for inventory management?
QR codes are available on smartphones.
Inventory management systems based on QR codes are highly accessible because almost every modern employee has a smartphone. You and your employees can easily retrieve their mobile devices from their pockets, scan products, register them, and check their status. This eliminates the need to purchase expensive scanners, as smartphones become powerful tools for scanning QR codes.
QR codes can contain much more information.
QR codes offer a wide variety of solutions and allow you to create specialized QR codes depending on their purpose and use. QR codes used in inventory management systems can link to various data types, such as PDF files, inventory images, Word documents, videos, and more. Additionally, QR codes can be attached to shipping boxes to identify the category of the product, which is especially useful in warehouses dealing with diverse items.
QR codes have built-in error correction.
QR codes are less susceptible to damage, meaning that even with minor damage, a QR code can still be successfully scanned. This is particularly important for global shipping and product distribution operations, as products may be exposed to various weather conditions and transportation challenges.
QR codes are editable.
Using dynamic QR codes, which are advanced versions of QR codes, allows you to edit and update the information they contain at any time. This is especially convenient in case of errors or changes in data. Dynamic QR codes enable you to change the destination URLs they provide without the need to reprint QR codes.
QR codes can work everywhere.
Scanning barcodes requires physical connections to a computer, which can be inconvenient, especially in warehouses or open fields. QR codes can be scanned using smartphones and work anywhere, providing convenience and practicality.
Easy integration into existing inventory management systems.
QR codes integrate easily into existing inventory management systems, as many software products already support this technology. With free QR code generators, you can update your inventory management process without significant costs.
Accelerating the inventory process.
Inventory management systems based on QR codes speed up data entry and reduce the likelihood of errors, allowing employees to focus on other administrative tasks, such as processing customer orders and updating budget data.
As you can see, QR codes are ideal for enterprise inventory management, enhancing efficiency, and reducing errors. This significantly expands their application beyond the traditional electronic business cards with QR codes for contact exchange.