March 30, 2012

More Barcode Tips for CMMS Software Users

Keeping with the barcoding theme, I thought I’d share some ideas on how to use all those labels you printed.  Obviously, you can affix labels to part bins. But what about those odd assortments that aren't in bins, or maybe those parts still in boxes or sitting on pallets?  Well, here are some ideas:

Some users of CMMS Software keep stockroom inventory parts in Ziploc bags, then affix a barcode label to the Ziploc bag. This can be helpful if a bin contains a collection of parts and you want to only issue out so many at a time, (such as 4 1” hex bolts).

By the way, it’s a good idea to use Ziploc bags to protect an item from dust or other contaminants.

For those larger, oddly-shaped parts that don’t really fit into bins, consider tying the barcode label directly to the part itself.  For instance, you can affix the barcode label to a 3x5 card.  Then you laminate the 3x5 card and label.  Finally,  punch a hole in it with a hole-punch and tie it to the part with a string or a twist tie.

Regardless, if possible, affix the barcode label directly to the part. Obviously, your ability to do so this depends on whether or not the barcode label itself would interfere with the part’s operation, but it is a simple solution.

And for those CMMS Software users managing government buildings and facilities out there that want to barcode such things as fire bottles, doors, drinking fountains, etc., consider using two barcoded labels.  Place the first label in an obvious location so the technician can find it.  However, you would also place a second label in an ‘underneath’ or ‘backside’ location as an alternative in case the first label is damaged.

Well, that’s all for now. Remember, barcoding reduces CMMS Software entry errors and improves accountability and efficiency when issuing or inventorying parts!