Communicating With Labels

This month I'll be discussing a subject that does not get much attention, labeling. Labels are everywhere, but unless they are required by law, we don't pay much attention to them. However, proper labeling improves communication with the result that productivity is improved, safety is improved, and the information employees/visitors need is available at the point of need.

I'll be start by discussing label printer technologies and their applications. That will be followed by a series of posting about labeling materials -- the tapes and die cut materials labels are printed on. For the remainder of the month I'll review a specific machine each day.

Why is good labeling important? Because it puts information at the point of need. Whether it's safety, maintenance, or operating information; directional information or security information; whether the labels are wire markers, bar codes on tools, or vehicle identification labels; good labeling means that whatever information is needed will be available at the point of need. This results in benefits such as eliminating time wasted searching for information, eliminating confusion, and reducing the potential for errors and accidents. This means there is less wasted manpower and material, there is reduced equipment downtime, and productivity increases.

I hope this series helps you improve communications through labeling.