Invest in bar coding equipment that closely monitors your fixed assets

Good inventory software will nicely back up a streamlined bar code system.

I recommend: RioScan Fixed Assets Inventory Software is an effective way to track your assets, as well as show you how much those assets are worth.

Buy bar code scanners that require no change in your current software

If you already have a barcode system in place, it's possible to invest in scanners that go right with the current flow of information.

I recommend: Check out Barcode Power's selection of scanners and systems that promise a seamless transition into your current barcode inventory equipment. In particular, Datalogic offers a variety of scanners for a wide range of prices.

Keep your inventory secure

Manufacturers of bar code reading equipment should also provide security software with their systems and products that help detect fake IDs as well as detect barcode and other errors.

I recommend: iCheckIt, provided by SSE Technologies, reads and decodes barcode formats and decodes magnetic stripe formats (credit cards, other IDs).

Shop for reduced-cost barcode supplies

While barcode equipment automatically reduces your costs by automating a number of inventory and asset-tracking tasks, you can take it one step further by purchasing this equipment used.

I recommend: Visit the Barcode Trading Post online to browse their inventory of used equipment, or even sell your own.

Make sure your barcode equipment manufacturer provides the right support

Bar coding equipment will automatically enhance your ability to provide better customer service by speeding up inventory processes and providing instant access to inventory information. But if something does go wrong, it's good to have a manufacturer that's got your back.

I recommend: Review a comprehensive list of manufacturers online at the MBCEStore, with each entry containing links to manufacturer-specific customer service information.