Maintaining accurate stock records is an ongoing concern for any business. It used to be that businesses had to keep track manually, but this is no longer the case. The advent of digital scanners was game-changing.
But these scanners have now been superseded by barcode scanning apps, the 21st-century solution to an age-old problem. Here are some of the reasons that the app-based approach is winning.
It’s Cheaper
Barcode scanners are more expensive than many people realize. Despite being relatively simple devices, barcode scanners often come with an inflated price tag due to their robust build quality. Not only do the devices themselves come with a hefty initial price tag, but there are also ongoing repair and maintenance costs that need to be factored in.
On the other hand, you can find open-source barcode scanner software that doesn’t cost you a penny. And even if you do end up paying for a software solution, barcode scanner software is considerably more affordable than a dedicated scanner.
Smartphones Are Everywhere
Pretty much everyone today carries a smartphone around with them in their pocket. Given how ubiquitous these devices are, it is easy to forget just how powerful and capable they are. Modern smartphones aren’t just useful communications devices; they are also very powerful little computers.
Given that most of the workers within any given business will already own a smartphone, it makes much more economic sense to issue barcode scanning software to every worker, instead of issuing every worker with a handheld scanner.
Augment Your App With Other Features
Barcode scanners generally only do one thing, even if they do it rather well. When you are building your own barcode scanning app, you have the freedom to augment it and add whatever features you like.
For example, you could design an app that will not only enable you to track everything that comes in or goes out of your warehouse but will also automatically reorder anything that you are low on. Similarly, you could add some basic messaging features to your app so that your workers can communicate easily with one another and leave notes for each other.
When you are building your own app from the ground up, the possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination.
Keep It Simple
The right barcode scanning software will enable you to maintain accurate stock records in the easiest way possible. All you have to do is scan barcodes as they come in, and the app will handle the rest. Another advantage of an app-based approach, especially if you opt for a bespoke app, is that you can build it so that it integrates with any existing systems in your business.
Maintain The Integrity Of Your Records
When the time comes to do an audit of your business stop, you will be very grateful for accurate records. Conducting stock audits can be an absolute nightmare, especially in environments that are poorly organized. The barcode scanning software makes it easy to maintain accurate records throughout the year. No system is perfect, but if you can implement the right workflow and procedures, you can maintain accurate records with little to no effort.
Handheld barcode scanners are relics from a bygone era, a time when our technological capabilities were not as advanced as they are today. Now, we are all carrying devices in our pockets that are capable of doing the same job but much better. All it takes is the right software.