Implementation of Project i-TRACE Unique identification requires:
The use of GS1 Standards, which includes several ‘identification keys’; these globally unique numbers are assigned by GS1 to external organisations e.g., manufacturers; operators, suppliers/manufacturers of any part, component or asset to be uniquely identified by allocating either a:
- GS1 Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), allocated to all orderable parts, component. Assets may also be allocated a GTIN, if accompanied with Serialisation per physical asset/unit or;
- GS1 Global Individual Asset Identifiers (GIAIs), allocated to assets
Often referred to as “barcode numbers”, GS1 identification keys (GTIN, GIAI) offer globally unique identification that is interoperable between trading partners, across many countries. Unlike proprietary, unregulated numbering conventions that present several issues, such as varied formats, duplication, and usually requires mapping/translation with external trading partners, meaning added admin and risk.
GS1 Globally Unique Identification numbers provide several benefits - including:
- Locally and globally recognised, a common language between different countries and trading partners
- Used across several industries for over 40 years, becoming the ‘Global Language of Business’
- Issued only by authorised GS1 organisations, barcode numbers are unique and accurate
- Based on global standards, aligned with ISO/IEC Standards, offering structured data for doing better business, operating railways more efficiently and effective, enabling improved MRO and safety
Once allocated, suppliers are to encode the identification keys into GS1 barcode formats, and possibly RFID. Refer to Section ii. Marking with automatic data capture (barcoding and/or RFID tagging)
A range of resources will support your organisation’s further understanding, scoping and Implementation of Project i-TRACE Unique identification – refer to ’Resources’.