Introduction
Barcode scanning technology operates based on the symbology principle; which defines the barcode, determines the interpretation as well as the mapping of the encoded data or information (Kato, Tan & Chai, 2010) The encoding enables the scanning gadget to know when a character or digit starts and the moment it stops; in the same way as binary interpretation. Barcodes are usually an array of lines organized in a parallel and alternated (black and white) manner. Barcode scanning technology offers a cheap and simple way of recording information or data in various applications.
Purpose
Initially used in labeling train cars or locomotives, barcode technology has made great strides over the last few decades. Presently, barcodes have been entirely integrated into the mainstream life of individuals; almost each product in a retail or grocery store bears a universal product code mapped in a bar code.
Application
Barcode technology has emerged to be an essential application in various sectors including health care and manufacturing. The aging population increasingly demands for swift and accurate medical systems. With the growing number of individuals needing health care services, the chance for the disease outbreak, patient tracking risks and medical record faults or errors, is also on the rise. To combat this, medical systems are increasingly adopting effective remedies; one of them being barcode scanning technology (Poon, et al. 2010; Kerr, Heelon & Higgins, 2010). The other sector that has benefited most from bar code technology is manufacturing; including the manufacturing of medicine. Pharmaceutical companies, like other companies, are increasingly adopting real time inventory management systems, which guarantee efficiency and mobility, because of the advances in barcode scanning technology (Porché, 2008).
Conclusion
In conclusion, barcode scanning technology has emerged as a de facto standard in each sector of the economy including health care. It is constantly developing and offering businesses and systems more approaches to data capturing.
References
Kato, H., Tan, K. T., & Chai, D. (2010). Barcodes for mobile devices. New York: Cambridge University Press.
Kerr, G. J., Heelon, M., & Higgins, T. (2010). Bar-code technology to reduce medication errors. The New England journal of medicine, 363(7), 698.
Poon, E. G., Keohane, C. A., Yoon, C. S., Ditmore, M., Bane, A., Levtzion-Korach, O., & Churchill, W. W. (2010). Effect of bar-code technology on the safety of medication administration. New England Journal of Medicine, 362(18), 1698- 1707.
Porché, R. A. (2008). Medication use: A systems approach to reducing errors. Oakbrook Terrace, Ill: Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.
