Using a barcode reader can be an effective way to streamline the inspection process and reduce the risk of errors. As with all tools though, there are pros and cons. Let's explore them.

Pros:

Streamlines Data Collection: To reduce time and effort, barcode scanners can provide an efficient and accurate form of data collection during an inspection. This effectively helps streamline a lot of tasks such as inventory management, information tracking, and data maintenance.

Reduce Risk of Errors: Inaccuracies and mistakes are often the result of human error. Typically during the manual entry of data and information, the worker can experience miscalculations, exhaustion, lack of concentration, and many other factors that can lead to human error.

Enhances Tracking and Reporting: A barcode scanner can Improve the overall efficiency and quality of the inspection progress. It may also provide better accuracy and security, as it not only provides precise real-time reporting of data but also protects it through detailed logs and an enhanced security system.

Cons:

Initial Cost: An organization starting from scratch can often find themselves struggling with the overall cost and initial set-up of a barcode scanner, as most barcode scanners can typically range from $100 to $1000 depending on the brand and intended use of the barcode scanner along with the system that you intend to pair with it.

Maintenance Cost: The overall cost doesn’t stem from purchasing them alone, but also from the regular maintenance and repair that barcode scanners would require. Failure to inspect its state can result in the barcode scanners becoming more inaccurate in reading the barcodes.

Set-up Time: Not all organizations are utilizing barcode scanners currently and set-up will require some time.

Limited Use: Inspections by a barcode scanner are only be able to read data labels which are set up for use by the system.

Overall, the barcode reader can provide benefits such as streamlining the data process and generating real-time reports of the data, assisting in eliminating a lot of the more manual and time-consuming tasks and reducing the potential errors that may arise from human error. So while there are disadvantages to adopting barcode technology, it would seem there is a return on investment thanks to the increased accuracy and efficiency.

The Barcode Reader add-on module for The Checker Software increases the efficiency of tracking assets and inspecting or auditing them. With a quick scan of a barcode, mobile devices loaded with the module can identify an asset and provide all the needed information about it, including the proper inspection procedure. The same device used to scan the barcode can then be used to conduct the inspection/audit, share and archive results, and create necessary action steps.