Abstract
In the 1980's, barcode labeling (computer readable symbols) and database management systems (DBMS) were adopted to manage inventory and sales for commercial businesses. The advantages of barcode labels allowed these new DBMSs to be universally accepted. The use of bar codes or other tracking systems is equally advantageous for managing natural history collection specimens, and several museums implemented or are planning to adopt computerized tracking and inventory systems. Here we review the use of barcode systems by natural history collections and provide a model for adopting computer-tracking abilities. For those collections that are planning to use a tracking system, we review the advantages and challenges that collection personnel have encountered in their use of bar codes. Due to the rapid nature of technological developments, our main goal is to provide guidelines to consider when employing the technology in natural history collections, especially tracking systems as represented by barcode labeling.
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