Setting up location barcode scanning

Barcode scanning can be a great solution to save time and prevent error's. If your company is large and you are having issues managing big clients with many locations, barcode scanning is the way to make your technicians life easier. In this article I will explain how to set up an efficient barcode scanning routine.

Step 1: Getting the barcodes

Before setting up the scanning procedure, make sure you have labels printed. It is important that your labels won't fade through time, especially when you will use labels for checkpoint barcode scanning as well. To make them last make sure the labels are laminated with a moisture and sun proof coating. 

Labels are generally sold in large rolls. An alternative to buying the barcode labels is printing the labels with a label printer. This is a great option if you want to create your own barcodes and layouts.

Step 2: Preparing the folders

There are a few options on how to set up an effective locations scanning procedure:

• Using a folder for every location: Set up a folder for every location. This folder is then stored by the customer at the location. This is very efficient for technicians because they won't have to bring a folder every time. Make sure the customer stores these folders well.
• Using one folder for every customer: Set up a folder with all locations. You can add a file to the folder with each location. This option is great if your customers cannot store the folders themselves. Your technicians have to make sure to bring the right folder for every customer visit.
• Adding the barcode somewhere at the location: Stick the barcode to the doorframe or find somewhere else to put it permanently.

Step 3: Adding the barcodes to Pestscan

First, make sure your customer has the barcode setting turned on. To do that, select 'Customers', choose the right customer and go to the tab 'Settings'. Here you check the option to use barcode scanning for this customer. 

In the web application you can add the barcode to a customer location. Select 'Customers', choose the right customer en go to the location. Choose the tab 'Miscellaneous'. Add the barcode to the Barcode field.

Step 4: Using barcode scanning

When on location, scan the barcode. In the app choose 'Customers', then select 'Scan'. You should now be able to easily find locations within seconds.