The bar coding module allows the user to import data such as stock count numbers, directly into IMPACTxp, from bar code readers that are used to electronically scan and translate bar code information.

Printed bar codes can be generated in IMPACTxp to represent plant items, inventory, work order numbers and employee codes held within the system. Using a bar code reader, the user is then able to simply swipe the bar codes to collect and record information such as stock issues and returns, stock count numbers, labor hours and asset locations.

This bar code technology becomes even more advanced with the use of hand held devices (for example Cognito, Psion and Denso). The user is then able to read bar codes “on-the-move” and download the information into IMPACTxp, at an appropriate time.

Stock issues and returns

The bar coding module can be used in any environment for the recording of stock movements and a number of companies have installed the bar coding module specifically for this reason.

Bar codes are produced to represent physical stock and are attached to each inventory item. Indeed, bar codes can be produced for bin locations within a store. When a stock issue is required, the user simply selects the correct option on the hand held device/bar code reader and scans the bar code attached to the item. Where inventory items are too small to carry a bar code, the user can simply scan them from a catalogue.

The user may then optionally scan the bin number. This means that if the item is held in more than one location, the system will deduct the physical stock number from the correct bin location. A physical quantity is then entered into the bar code reader and the item is booked out.

The same scenario occurs when an item is returned to stores by selecting the relevant option on the bar code reader. When all stock movements are complete, the user is able to upload the information into IMPACTxp.

Selective stock taking

The user can also use bar codes to take a physical count on the current stock position. Although IMPACTxp automatically counts inventory numbers based on recorded stock movements, the user may wish to compare the physical stock count against the system to ensure that no items are missing. The user first decides which inventory items are to be counted.

The powerful filtering capabilities of the IMPACTxp system means that the user is able to carry out a selective stock count. Filters are used on the system to produce stock counts for specific inventory codes, store locations or bin references. The user can also filter using a percentage value or utilize stock count dates, whereby the system will check the stock take cycle of every item to check if it is due to be counted. These details are uploaded into the hand held device.

The user then scans the hand held device on the store bin label, according to those items that are to be counted and enters the current stock count before moving on to the next item. The current stock numbers are then fed back into IMPACTxp for comparison with the system stock count.

Asset tracking

Bar codes can actually be used to track assets. The user simply scans the bar code, scans the location and feeds the information back into IMPACTxp, where the current location of the asset is then updated. This is particularly useful for the tracking of rotable items. In fact the principle of asset tracking can be extended to calibration instruments, tools and equipment used in facility booking.

Labor hours

The user is able to calculate job times via the use of bar codes, which can be created for employee codes and work order numbers. A work order is produced in the system. When the employee assigned to the work is ready, a simple scan of the work order and employee badge effectively “logs” them on the work. When the job has been completed the employee “logs off” by scanning the work order a second time. This information is then uploaded into IMPACTxp for further analysis of labor utilization.

Bar code operation

It is easy to appreciate the scope and the benefits of bar coding. One scenario begins with the issuing of a work order.

The user scans the relevant stock items required to undertake the task on the work order. The bin location is then scanned to determine where it has been taken from.

The work order number and the employee badge is then scanned to “log” onto the job and to record who the item was issued to. In the space of a few minutes, the user has therefore collected a wealth of information to be uploaded into IMPACTxp. Specifically – who, what, when, where. When the work has been completed the user is then able to scan the work order to record labor hours and even a cost code.