Replace manual data entry with an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) barcode scanner

Originally designed as manufacturing management tools, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are now comprehensive software platforms that businesses from all industries use to manage their core operations. They merge disparate functions into one common database, enhancing efficiency.

ERP systems began as form-fill systems, with their user interfaces designed for manual input. We have come a long way since: Modern mobile data capture technology enables ERP data entry by simply scanning barcodes with common smartphone applications.

Barcodes used in ERP system operations

An ERP system manages a wide range of core business operations on a single, integrated platform. In many of these areas, barcode technology can streamline workflows. 

There is no one-size-fits-all barcode symbology, however: which barcode type is the best for a given application depends on operational requirements.

Generally, 1D barcodes are quick to read with ordinary laser scanners. However, they can’t encode as much information as their 2D cousins, which in turn require more capable scanners. 

Let’s look at some key business operations that can be enhanced by barcode scanning, and the barcodes typically used for them:

If your business uses an ERP system to bring these operations together, it’s crucial to choose a barcode scanner solution that can scan all these barcodes – and any others that are relevant. 

This demand for versatility is where mobile barcode scanners come into play.

Advantages of mobile barcode scanners over traditional devices in ERP systems

Traditional barcode scanners have shortcomings that mobile barcode scanners don’t. Above all, they are expensive, specialized hardware, and mobile technology is far more flexible.

Integrated into a web or mobile application, modern barcode scanner software turns common smart devices into fast and accurate barcode scanners. 

Let’s now take a closer look at their numerous advantages over traditional scanner devices:

• Enhanced accuracy: Mobile barcode scanners are often more accurate than dedicated devices – thanks to advanced image processing capabilities. Furthermore, they can scan both 1D and 2D barcodes, unlike many traditional scanners, especially laser scanners. 
• Familiarity and increased efficiency: Using smartphones as barcode scanners can speed up workflows because most employees are already familiar with them. This minimizes training time and motivates employees to use barcode scanning instead of slow, error-prone manual data entry.
• Flexibility and portability: Smartphones are lightweight and easy to carry. They are flexible, without restrictions like cords, and employees can use them anywhere and anytime – whether deep in a warehouse or on the road.
• Offline capabilities: Some mobile barcode scanning solutions function completely offline. Even without network connectivity, employees can keep working. The data synchronizes with the ERP system once connectivity is restored, minimizing interruptions. 
• Real-time data access: Mobile barcode scanners enable real-time data input for ERP systems. Thanks to their ease of use and advanced barcode scanning capabilities, it is simple to add data capture to a range of processes. Like this, inventory level, stock movement, and order status data is always correct.
• Cost savings: Using smartphones instead of dedicated scanner devices reduces the long-term cost. Not only is the upfront cost often lower, smartphones can be used for other purposes, potentially replacing several expensive dedicated devices. Strategies like CYOD can unlock bulk discounts.
• Scalability: As soon as barcode scanning functionality is added to an app, it can be deployed on as many devices as needed. SaaS solutions with a fixed-price model are especially advantageous.

Overall, the benefits are substantial: Apart from their cost and scalability edge, mobile barcode scanners enhance decision-making by improving real-time data access and accuracy. 

Integrate barcode scanning into your app with the Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK

The Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK offers a highly customizable user interface that can be easily adapted to your use case. Our Ready-to-Use UI components cover a wide range of barcode scanning scenarios and can be integrated into your web or mobile app within mere hours. If you want even more customization, our Classic UI components offer precisely that.

The SDK comes with a variety of features that are intended to streamline your workflows, most notably several scan modes:

• Batch Scanning: To scan a series of barcodes consecutively without closing the scanning screen.
• Multi Scanning: To capture multiple barcodes at once.
• Find & Pick: To scan and visually highlight only barcodes with certain values, simplifying finding the right product or package. 
• Scan & Count: To count all barcodes in the viewfinder. The Scanbot SDK captures all barcodes at once and then instantly presents a list of the barcode values it detected, and how often. 

With the Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK, you can turn any smart device into a highly reliable and accurate barcode scanner. See for yourself how it performs by trying our free barcode scanner demo apps.

Or you can read more about exciting use cases, such as that of IMI – Agrippa, a Norwegian software solution provider for logistics, supply chain, and retail operations. Thanks to our versatile scan modes, IMI – Agrippa now offers its customers even better tools for optimizing every aspect of their business operations, from the warehouse to the retail floor.

Send us a message at sdk@scanbot.io if you have any questions or want to learn more about the SDK!