The Evolution of Barcodes: From 1D to 2D with GS1 Digital Link

Barcodes have changed drastically since their 1970s introduction. And with the GS1 Digital Link, barcodes ranging from 1D to 2D code are once again experiencing another major change today.

From conventional 1D barcodes, usually seen in supermarkets and retail, this latest advancement brings us 2D barcodes that may provide considerably more information including the capacity to link customers with digital experiences.

Learn about the GS1 Digital Link

The GS1 Digital Link is a standards-based system from Global Standards 1 (GS1) that combines a broad spectrum of product information into a single 2D code, like a QR code.

Through a simple scan, stores, producers, and consumers may access a variety of data using this new benchmark. This covers everything from product specifics to safety information, production statistics, and even consumer engagement features like tailored suggestions.

The GS1 Digital Link lets customers insert comprehensive product information in the form of a web link rather than only storing a small volume of data akin to a 1D barcode.

Therefore, when a customer or merchant scans the code, they are sent to an online product page where they may check for recalls, learn more about the item, or even prove its authenticity.

• Why is GS1 Transitioning to the Digital Link?

As the demand for more thorough product information grows, the constraints of the typical 1D barcode become apparent.

Businesses have to, for instance, progressively incorporate more data on their packaging, including safety warnings, nutritional information, and expiry dates.

The problem is that many barcodes on packaging not only take up space but also could mislead consumers and undermine the design appeal.

By aggregating all the required data into a single 2D code (like a QR code), which can carry much more data than a conventional linear barcode, the GS1 Digital Link may address these problems above.

While stores could use the same code for POS scanning, consumers can scan the code using their cell phones. This one approach simplifies product identification and replaces many barcodes’ needs.

Plus, the Digital Link improves supply chain visibility. Embedding batch or serial numbers into the code can help manufacturers and stores monitor goods throughout the supply chain, therefore increasing efficiency and guaranteeing product safety.

Can Thermal Inkjet Printers Implement GS1 Digital Link?

One of the most commonly requested questions by manufacturers is if they could use the GS1 Digital Link 2D code with their present printing technologies, including thermal inkjet printers.

The answer is yes. Many modern printers can indeed produce the codes required for the GS1 Digital Link already.

However, manufacturers still have to ensure that their printers are ready to satisfy the specific requirements of these codes, including the need for great precision and clarity, thereby preventing scanning errors.

Therefore, particularly in industries with quick production lines, the transition from 1D to 2D code could need specific upgrades in product handling systems. For example, verification systems can help ensure that codes are printed accurately and are scannable all the way.

• The Benefits of GS1 Digital Link

Overall, for manufacturers, stores, and customers equally, the switch to the GS1 Digital Link offers several benefits:

• Enhanced Product Transparency

Just scanning a 2D barcode lets consumers access comprehensive product information. This covers ingredient listings, allergy warnings, and even directions on product recycling.

• Improved Supply Chain Management

Manufacturers may better monitor their goods throughout the supply chain by including batch numbers, expiration dates, and other important data into the code.

• Product Authentication

Next, the GS1 Digital Link lets customers and stores easily check the authenticity of goods, therefore helping to fight counterfeiting.

• Reduced Packaging Clutter

Also, one 2D code may include all the required information instead of many barcodes cluttering the package, therefore enabling a better, more visually acceptable design.

• Personalized Consumer Experiences

Lastly, customized material for consumers, including product suggestions, sustainability facts, and promotions, can result from 2D barcode scanning

Transitioning from 1D to 2D Barcodes: Challenges and Considerations

Although switching to the GS1 Digital Link has clear advantages, manufacturers might find certain difficulties switching from 1D barcodes to 2D ones.

Among the most crucial elements is the associated data management. Dynamic data like batch information, expiration dates, and more comprehensive product descriptions might be found in a 2D barcode than in a standard barcode that offers only the most basic information.

Thus, strong ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are needed to manage this data so that every 2D code of every product has the correct data ingrained into it.

Manufacturers also had to ensure their processes could swiftly print these codes without sacrificing quality. Should broken goods find consumers, poorly drafted rules may lead to rework, product rejections, or maybe legal issues.

Another challenge is ensuring every point-of-sale (POS) system can identify 2D barcodes. While many stores are already changing their systems in readiness for the 2027 deployment, producers must make sure their barcodes fit both new and old scanning technology.

Preparing for the GS1 Digital Link

If manufacturers want to properly migrate to the GS1 Digital Link, they have to start preparing right now. The first step, examining your current product identification system will enable you to choose which data should enter the 2D barcode.

In this step, speaking with supply chain managers, marketing teams, and regulatory authorities might help to ensure that all relevant data is acquired.

Next step, you will have to assess your present printing technology and decide if improvements or upgrading are required.

Ensuring that your manufacturing process can meet the new coding needs will depend on your investing in contemporary thermal inkjet printers or another 2-dimension code-capable technology.

Furthermore important is the use of quality control techniques to guarantee that every code is printed scannable throughout the supply chain and clearly.

Timeline for GS1 Digital Link Implementation

The GS1 Digital Link’s official sunrise period is set for 2027, hence companies have some years to be ready for the change.

Still, the timing to begin is right now. Early Digital Link users are already enjoying more simplified packaging, better customer involvement, and greater supply chain awareness.

Remember, the change will take time, hence companies will have to balance their current 1D barcode systems with the new 2D barcodes until complete acceptance is attained.

But when more stores and manufacturers change their systems, the GS1 Digital Link will probably start to be the new norm in all kinds of businesses.

Thus, now is the perfect moment for companies to start getting ready for the GS1 Digital Link technology by investing in the right machine. Check out our marking and coding solutions for 2D code printing at Markcom Global!

Read About: What is GS1 Barcode? Here Is The Complete Explanations

 

Referensi:

https://www.domino-printing.com/en/blog/2023/2d-code-sunrise

https://www.gs1us.org/industries-and-insights/standards/gs1-digital-link/for-brands

https://www.domino-printing.com/en/solutions/2d-codes

https://www.logisticsit.com/articles/2023/08/23/are-you-prepared-for-the-2d-code-sunrise