Universal Product Code Education and Training

Learn the latest Universal Product Code technology to accurately track product and price information
By Deneatra Harmon The Universal Product Code helps manufacturers identify specific products and equipment by name, description and price. Universal Product Code education and training is often required so that businesses learn to distinguish between different types of UPC codes, or symbologies, which are used to identify products for various markets. For example, one type of UPC code features a 12-digit number that identifies retail items. Other common variations of the Universal Product Code include EAN, or the European Article Number, which identifies international products. The 10-digit ISBN, or the International Standard Book Number, identifies books and periodicals.

Workers should also train on printing technology, devices and scanners used to decode products with the Universal Product Code, as well as options for printing UPC labels. Overall, studying resources at your own pace, and participating in online and on-site seminars or classes are some of the ways to get Universal Product Code education and training.

1. Read online guides or other resources to learn the history and the basics of the Universal Product Code.

2. Attend workshops at schools or institutions to get Universal Product Code education and training.

3. Train on-the-job to learn how to identify and apply Universal Bar Code technology to your products.

Find publications that focus on the basics and technologies of the Universal Product Code

Several online resources provide information such as the history and origin of the UPC code, as well as how to create them.
Try:  Adams Communications features a site that provides basic Universal Product Code facts, key terms and printing processes. GS1 US presents the history and origins of the Universal Product Code. Cummings Design also provides a brief history of the Universal Product Code. GlobalSpec gives information on common technologies and software used to decode and scan product codes.

Participate in Universal Product Code workshops and seminars, where applicable

Some local colleges or institutes offer short courses and workshops that teach the fundamentals of the Universal Product Code.
Try:  Find classroom and online Universal Product Code education and training resources at the International Code Council site. Fotel arranges consulting and training seminars that focus on Universal Product Code education and training.

Look for additional training opportunities that focus on the uses of the Universal Product Code

Seek personalized or on-the-job Universal Product Code education and training opportunities.
Try:  Wasp Barcode Technologies offers product tutorials in addition to classroom and web-based Universal Product Code education and training options. If you’re an engineer, product manufacturer or designer, learn about Universal Product Code basics, technologies and compliance standards at QuanTech. Simply Barcodes features guides to the Universal Product Code variations and uses.