The "product number" is a unique identifier or identification number assigned to a specific product. It is used to identify, track, and manage products within a company or supply chain. The product number can have various formats, such as a numerical combination, a barcode, or an alphanumeric string. It is used to provide clear identification of a particular product type, model, batch, or item, thus increasing efficiency in product management and reducing errors.
Typical functions of software in the "product number" area include:
Generation of product numbers: Automatic generation of unique product numbers based on defined rules, formats, or algorithms.
Management of product numbers: Capture, storage, and management of product numbers in a central database or information system.
Barcode generation: Generation of barcode labels or tags based on the product numbers for easy identification and tracking of the products.
Linkage with product information: Linking product numbers to detailed product information such as descriptions, specifications, prices, and inventory levels.
Search and filter functions: Provision of search and filter functions to quickly find and retrieve products based on their product numbers.
Bulk processing of product numbers: Ability to process and manage large quantities of product numbers simultaneously, such as for updating or reassignment.
Traceability: Support for tracing products along the supply chain based on their unique product numbers to facilitate quality assurance and recall actions.
Integration with other systems: Integration of product number management with other enterprise systems such as inventory management, sales processing, or accounting for seamless data transfer and processing.
Versioning and history: Storage of historical versions of product numbers for tracking changes and traceability.