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2D BARCODES: A SIGNIFICANT INDUSTRY TRANSITION

In order to achieve accurate and real-time visibility into their supply chains and more effectively track and trace their inventories, many companies across all industries are exploring new technologies to better capture product data. One such transformation gaining momentum is two-dimensional (2D) barcodes. In fact, 2D barcodes promise endless possibilities for greater product information transparency, traceability, and authentication, from supply chain stakeholders and all the way to consumers.

WHAT ARE 2D BARCODES?

 Unlike their one-dimensional counterparts, like EAN/UPC standard barcodes that simply represent product identity and enable price lookups through parallel lines, 2D barcodes are matrices or patterns of cells (Data Matrix and QR Codes, respectively) that can store vast amounts of information, including product specifics, transaction details, and even URLs. Their compact design and ability to be scanned even when damaged make them space-efficient and highly durable. 2D barcodes are slated to allow organizations to adopt a single, standardized means of providing the right product information at the right time to the right people.

According to resources from GS1 US, a notable transformation is on the horizon. By 2027, a significant industry transition will see the widespread adoption of these 2D barcodes, responding directly to the pressing needs of both supply chains and changing consumer expectations.

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2D BARCODES: THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY’S TOOL FOR TRANSPARENCY AND SAFETY

Nowhere is the shift to 2D barcodes more impactful than in the pharmaceutical industry. For a sector that relies heavily on accurate, timely, and secure data transfer, 2D barcodes offer an unprecedented advantage. Medications aren’t just about the compound; it’s about the source, the path of the product, expiry dates, and batch numbers, among other things.

The integration of 2D barcodes into a pharmaceutical business and its supply chain offers several advantages. First, these barcodes enable a high-performance track-and-trace system, allowing for meticulous monitoring of products throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring both their authenticity and origin. Coupled with the dense data storage capabilities of 2D barcodes, companies can achieve real-time updates on stock levels, leading to optimized inventory management. Thanks to 2D bar codes, pharma companies can also ensure an additional layer of safety and traceability.

The pharmaceutical industry is just one of many aiming to adopt 2D bar codes. While healthcare companies have already commonly used 2D barcodes, actors in food & beverage, consumer goods manufacturing, automakers, warehousing, logistics and retail, to name a few, are also getting on the bandwagon.

OPTEL’S EXPERTISE IN HANDLING 2D BARCODES

OPTEL has been handling 2D barcodes for years now, as many of our clients were early adopters of the technology. Nevertheless, 2D barcodes spell a world of opportunities. An evolution in scanners: The move to 2D barcodes implies the obsolescence of traditional laser scanners. OPTEL’s scanning solutions are already equipped with 2D data capture capabilities.

Enhanced serialization: 2D barcodes allow companies to more quickly implement variable Data Matrix and serialization into their production processes as it has become easier to insert 2D barcodes on labels. 2D barcodes will prove to be more effective for product authentication and tracing an item’s journey throughout its supply chain.

Improved customer engagement: As 2D barcodes can house more than just product information, companies can drive deeper customer engagement. By embedding important and comprehensive product information within the barcodes, brands can cultivate a more personalized and immersive consumer experience.

Transparent data sharing: In an era where consumers demand transparency, 2D barcodes pave the way for businesses to demonstrate their product origins and hand-offs, from sourcing to shelf. This aligns perfectly with the trend of conscious consumption, where knowing the story behind a product is as important as the product itself, which is key to fostering greater brand trust. OPTEL has been a member and certified partner of GS1, the renowned supply chain standards organization. GS1 offers a handy guide to help companies integrate barcode identifications.

ARE YOU CONSIDERING LEVERAGING 2D BARCODES FOR YOUR NEXT SUPPLY CHAIN TRACK-AND-TRACE PROJECT?  CONTACT AN OPTEL EXPERT TO HELP YOU GET STARTED BASED ON YOUR INDUSTRY’S REQUIREMENTS AND YOUR UNIQUE CHALLENGES.

Contact Optel Today

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