Achieving economy and optimization through the use of bar coding in the structural steel environment is a multi-step process. The first step involves a basic understanding and use of bar code technology, including: what is a bar code, what are the different types of bar codes, considerations for use of media, printing and reading bar codes. The results of this process includes selecting the types of bar codes, print media, printers and bar code scanning devices which are most appropriate for the structural steel environment. The next step is to identify the potential applications for bar code technology use in the structural steel environment and to perform a cost/benefit analysis of each application. Potential applications include inventory, material traceability, piece tracking, shipping, quality control, labor and time & attendance. After cost justification of one or more bar code applications, to insure a successful implementation, a predefined checklist of steps should be followed.
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