Finance and Insurance
Avoid Typos in Your Labeling with Input Masks! Reducing Errors Series – Article #1
Summary One of the most common errors in label creation is mistyping (i.e. a ‘typo’). Doing this with critical label information at print time can cause BIG problems. Most brands of labeling software can help prevent user typos by using a process called masking. This article explains how input masking works and provides some examples…
Read MoreDesign Your Label Using Fonts Instead of Images Files
Summary Did you know that many images commonly used on labels are also available as fonts? The most typical way of putting images into your label design is to save your image as a jpeg or png file so that it can be linked or embedded in your label design. However, many icons and images…
Read MoreUse Industrial Labeling Software to Easily Create GS1 Compliant UPC Product Labels
Summary GS1, an international standards organization, maintains the requirements for barcode labeling of retail items. There are several commonly used formats for product identification depending on the item, country, and space available on label. UPC and EAN are the two most common examples. The GS1 specification is very detailed and technical. It requires the manufacturer…
Read MoreReduce Human Error with Effective Label Design
Summary “To err is human; to forgive, divine.” – Alexander Pope Most labeling software applications are packed with tools and features to prevent errors. This article covers some common ones and provides some links to Efficient Ideas articles. Methods to Reduce Human Error Several methods can be used to reduce the potential for human error: Input…
Read MorePrevent Invalid Dates in Your Labels. Reducing Errors Series – Article #2
Summary Ever see an expiration date of November 31st on a label? How about February 30th? April 31st? June 31st? Invalid dates can enter your label by either human entry or an erroneous mathematical calculation caused by a simple formula. Although both types of error are possible, steps can be taken to reduce or eliminate…
Read MoreAvoid the Emergency Upgrade Trap!
Summary Unfortunately, we sometimes get a desperate call from a label software user. Something catastrophic occurred to their labeling system. Perhaps a license server is down or a PC has died. The client cannot print labels and they need to get things running ASAP! We are glad to assist so when we get that call,…
Read MoreClear Printer Memory to Prevent Misapplied Labels
Summary What you cannot see CAN hurt you! Just about every thermal printer has internal memory. It is very helpful in the printing process providing many benefits in the printing operation. With printer memory, the printer can store important data to speed up the printing process such as fonts, images, and even entire label formats…
Read MoreWhich of the Two Methods of Thermal Printing Technology Is Best for You?
Summary Thermal printing technology has stood the test of time. Since 1972, its use has become widespread and it’s typically the technology of choice when printing labels. There are two methods for thermal label printing and most printers support both methods: Direct Thermal Thermal Transfer When deciding which method is best, your decision should be…
Read MoreCreating a Testing Plan for Label System Upgrades
Summary ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ – Bert Lance Unfortunately, this phrase does not apply to software. With constant changes in security, software features, regulatory requirements, and the world itself, the system will break if not updated. When it breaks, it can cause significant downtime and thus money. Perhaps a more accurate phrase…
Read MoreUse Formulas to Prevent Faulty Labels from Printing. Reducing Errors Series – Article #4
Summary Is your label design smart enough to know that a user entered Use by Date needs to be at least 1 year or more after the Manufacture Date?Depending on what software application you use, you may be able to train it! Some industrial labeling applications have the ability to use formulas built into the…
Read More