Picture a world where your label data is always 100% right, cutting down on waste and making life easier for users. For many businesses—especially those in manufacturing, food and beverage, and other industries—that need precise labeling, this may seem impossible. But the answer is simple: having a single source of truth (SSOT) for label data.
This blog will explore the problems caused by inaccurate label data and how creating an SSOT can be the key to overcoming these challenges. Read on or talk to a TEKLYNX labeling expert—we can help assess your labeling environment and label data management practices and give you doable suggestions for improvement.
Label data can go wrong for several reasons. Common problems include human mistakes, old information, and having data in many different places. For example, manual data entry is often full of errors, and without regular updates, label information can quickly become outdated. When different departments or systems keep separate data sets, inconsistencies are bound to happen.
Bad label data can seriously hurt business operations. Mislabeling products can affect consumer trust and lead to breaking rules, resulting in fines and other penalties.
In the worst cases, mislabeling can cause costly product recalls or chargebacks from distributors and retailers. For example, a mislabeled food product might trigger an allergen warning, leading to a recall and damaging the brand's reputation.
Inaccurate label data causes a lot of waste, both environmentally and financially. Incorrect labels mean wasted paper, ink, and thermal ribbons, adding to landfill waste. Financially, reprinting labels causes production delays and extra costs. This waste can add up quickly, hurting a company’s profits and sustainability goals.
Users dealing with bad labels can get very frustrated. Confusion over which label is correct can lead to more work and repeated efforts. In environments where efficiency is key—like warehouses or production lines—this confusion can cause delays and mistakes, affecting overall productivity.
One of the biggest benefits of creating a single source of truth for label data is the elimination of data silos. Instead of data being scattered across the company, the most accurate and up-to-date label data is available in one central location.
A single source of truth for label data means having a system or database where all label-related data is stored, managed, and maintained. This centralization improves data accuracy, makes updates easier, and ensures compliance with regulations. By putting all label data in one place, businesses can streamline operations and reduce the risk of errors.
Linking label data to existing business systems such as warehouse management systems (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems helps make sure real-time data is used on labels. This connection means any changes made in the business system are automatically reflected in the label data, keeping it consistent and accurate.
Better connections in your labeling process can have a major impact on your profits and set your business up for future success.
Automating label printing from a centralized data source is a game-changer. This can be done in several ways:
Automation reduces label errors, improves efficiency, and lowers operational costs. For example, Dot Foods successfully integrated SENTINEL with their existing WMS and greatly improved their labeling processes.
The first step to creating an SSOT for label data is to evaluate your current data management systems. Find out where data is being entered or pulled from and identify areas for improvement. Consider if your label data is already stored in a system that can link to your label templates.
Look for inconsistencies and inefficiencies in your current processes. Are there duplicate data entries? Are updates made in one system but not another? Identifying these issues can highlight potential integration points between systems or data and help streamline your operations.
Selecting the appropriate tools is crucial for establishing an SSOT for label data. Key features to look for in label design software include database connections and business system labeling integration. These capabilities ensure your label data is always accurate.
Assess your current label data management practices and consider implementing—or linking your label templates to—a single source of truth. The long-term benefits of accurate, waste-free, and frustration-free label data management include reduced label errors, saved time, and money. By centralizing and automating your label data processes, you can achieve greater efficiency and compliance, enhancing your business operations.
Does having a single source of truth for label data still seem impossible? TEKLYNX labeling experts are here to help you.
Nicole Lepkowski is the Customer Support Manager at TEKLYNX, where she actively coaches her team to ensure each customer's needs are met quickly and carefully. With over nine years of experience working with TEKLYNX software users, Nicole is dedicated to raising the bar in customer support and helping companies throughout the supply chain barcode better. Outside of her role at TEKLYNX, Nicole enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
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