Bar Code for Distribution

The Progression Series Bar Code module allows users of Progression’s Inventory Management (I/M), Order Entry (O/E), and Purchase Order (P/O) modules to automate data collection for inventory transactions, shipping transactions, and receiving transactions. The Progression’s Bar Code module acts as an interface between the Progression modules (I/M, P/O, and O/E) and the data collection software and hardware provided by any data collection vendor the user chooses.

The Bar Code module is designed to support real time - radio frequency (RF) or batch data collection technology. The same Bar Code module is used in both batch and radio frequency environments. In RF environment, information such as quantities, item numbers, order numbers, and serial numbers are validated against the Progression data files at the time the information is scanned. Once validated, the bar code reader translates that scanned data to an ASCII file that is sent to the Bar Code module via radio waves. The bar code module has a polling feature that can be set to automatically import transactions that reside in the bar code interface file. The polling routine insures that data being collected is passed to Progression the moment the Bar Code module interface is populated with new data. In an environment using batch technology, the bar code reader stores transactions in a hand-held computer as they are processed. Once all transactions have been processed, the user plugs the hand-held computer into a PC via a serial port. Information is then downloaded into a directory that can be imported into Progression by the import application in the Bar code module.

Symbology

The grouping of parallel bars that is associated with bar coding is referred to as symbology. The Progression Series Bar Code module is not symbology dependent. As long as the data collection vendor can translate the symbology and pass the information to the ASCII import, the Bar Code Module can process the information. There is only one Bar Code module for distribution; however, there are several Bar Code/Import programs which automate existing standard Exact Software North America processes. They are:

1. Inventory Transaction Processing-The module duplicates the functionality of the inventory applications located under the TRX menu. It allows for the following transactions to be performed in Progression using data collection technology:
   • Issues
   • Receipts
   • Transfers
   • Physical & Cycle Count Processing
   • Additional features supported include:
     • Serial Numbers
     • Lot Numbers
     • Multi Bin
     • Multiple Locations
2. Shipping (Quick Ship)-Allows users to eliminate filling customer orders by hand keying shipping transactions. In an environment that uses data collection, the shipping process begins with printing a pick ticket. The order number, item number, quantities to ship, stocking location, and, if required, serial or lot numbers associated with the item are scanned from the bar coded labels or pick ticket. Progression allows the user to determine when quantities on hand are updated. The user defines when inventory is updated during the Progression’s Order Entry module set-up. The user can choose one of the following methods:
   • Confirm Bill - Inventory is relieved when invoices are posted in Progression.
   • Confirm Ship - Inventory is relieved when the order is shipped.
3. Purchase Order Receiving Processing (Quick Receipt)- The receiving process is much like the shipping process. The user prints a bar coded copy of the purchase order. The purchase order number, item number, quantities to ship, and stocking location are scanned from the bar coded labels or purchase order. If an item requires inspection, the item is moved to an inspection location. If no inspection is required, the item is moved to a stocking location.
   • Receiving Transactions
   • Supports Lot numbers & Serial Numbers
   • Supports Multi Bins
   • Receiving Inspection
   • Landed Cost

Printing

Exact Software North America’s Forms Designer in System Manager supports the printing of ¼'' bar codes (symbology) on forms. Clients are not required to purchase the Bar Code module to print bar codes on forms. Forms that support the printing of bar codes are:

• Purchase Orders (receivers)
• Return Authorization
• Picking Tickets
• Labels

Exact Software North America’s Forms Designer supports Code 3 of 9, Code 39, and UCC 128. Other symbologies are supported by bar code labeling packages sold by Exact Software North America's third party solution partners. Call for a list of the current third party providers.