When done right — implementing a new barcoding system builds a real-time view of inventory and leads to better control and efficiency in warehouse operations. But even the best tools fail if the team isn’t fully on board.

Change is tough and it’s not uncommon for employee resistance to trigger a vicious cycle. Poor adoption leads to lost benefits, more errors and eventually, reinforces any initial doubts.

To help your team truly get behind barcoding, here are 5 practical strategies I’ve learned from warehouse managers we’ve worked with.

5 Practical Barcoding Implementation Strategies.

1. Involve the Team Early for Questions/Input

One of the most effective ways to build employee buy-in is to involve your team as early as possible.

Inform your team over a quick meeting— listen for questions or concerns. Explain why barcoding is essential for operations and how it will make daily tasks easier (i.e. inventory counts or picking).

Employees are more likely to commit to new processes when they understand the reasoning behind them and feel their input is valued.

Pro-Tip: Meet 1-on-1 with staff for input. Ask them what’s working, what’s not, and if they have any suggestions. This helps encourage ownership over processes and prompts staff to think more like a manager.

2. Make Workflows Effortless As Possible

A major barrier to adoption is a lack of confidence. If workers don’t feel prepared to use the system, they’re likely to revert to old routines. By using an integrated WMS, workers can rely on guided workflows so they know exactly what and when to scan.

Pro-Tip: Find a WMS that helps reduce input-errors by preventing incorrect scans. A smart WMS will only interrupt processes when truly necessary.

3. Designate “Go-To Experts” for Intermediate Support

Even with training, employees might feel uncertain as they begin using the system independently. Choose a designated member on each team (or site location) to answer questions or address issues. This not only increases access to support but also builds leadership and a greater sense of responsibility.

Pro-Tip: Alternatively, you can encourage a buddy system. Pair up employees who are more confident with barcoding with those who might need a bit of extra support.

4. Highlight Early Wins to Build Momentum

Nothing speaks louder than results. Celebrate early wins with the team, whether you reached the next stage in training or cut down on unnecessary inventory counts.

When employees see tangible improvements, it reinforces the system’s value and encourages them to keep using it.

Pro-Tip: Share simple metrics with the team, like faster picking and putaway rates, or how shipping accuracy improved after barcoding was implemented.

5. Gather Feedback and Adapt as You Go

Check-in with your team for their feedback and suggestions 2-3 months after implementation. Next, follow through on your promises. It’s critical you make the tool work for the team, rather than forcing the team to adapt to the tool.

Pro-Tip: Small improvements, like moving label printers closer to your Shipping team or turning “daily inventory counts” to “monthly” ones will make a big difference.

Start your journey today!

Engaging your team when adopting a new system can help unlock its full potential, reduce resistance, and promote long-term success.

Ready to improve your team’s material handling skills? Contact us today to start building your plan for success!