Bar Coding Projects: Preparation and Execution

Massive bar coding projects require a great deal of planning and preparation, and usually involve most of a library's staff. The swift and efficient execution of the project is paramount. While a large‐scale bar coding project can be intimidating, detailed planning can prevent hours of anxiety and the need for crisis management. This article attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of the relevant issues for a successful bar coding project. Selecting bar codes, planning and structuring a project, calculating time estimates, and maintaining staff morale are presented in detail. A selected bibliography provides access to more information.