Selecting a Scanner: Human Factors Manual for Conducting Scanner Performance Evaluations

 

When a new or upgraded scanner is to be installed in a retail environment it is important to know that the full benefit of the new technology will be realized. Given the wide variety of barcode scanners available, and human factors engineering (HFE) considerations, selection is not a simple task. This document provides a variety of scanner selection techniques.

Selection criteria can be classified in three ways: Compatibility, Cost, and Performance (see Figure 1). Scanner performance is a complex issue with an on-going effect throughout the scanner life cycle. Compatibility and Cost represent the initial investment and operational cost required for the scanner, while scanner performance represents the return on investment through operational savings, improved productivity, and heightened customer service.


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