2D bar-code applications in construction

Two-dimensional (2D) bar codes provide a greater capacity for encoding data than regular or linear symbology. With recent developments in 2D hardware, this symbology can now be employed in industrial applications. This paper discusses this technology and its applicability in the construction environment. A comparison with one-dimensional bar codes is made, and advantages and disadvantages are discussed. An explanation of how data are encoded and scanned along with the hardware and software requirements is included. Finally, several construction applications are proposed to illustrate how this technology could be applied in the construction industry.