GS1 Digital Link Use Cases

The number of potential use cases for GS1 Digital Link is limitless. Just like the Web, GS1 DL can be applied to all sorts of different scenarios, taking advantage of:

• the ability to link one data carrier to any number of related resources, each identified by a combination of link type, language, context and media type;
• the ability to link a data carrier to APIs, documents, media assets and more;
• the ability to work at any level of granularity, in particular, at batch/lot and serial level whilst retaining links at higher levels in the hierarchy.

The following is an inexhaustive list of use cases that are currently under discussion. The list does not distinguish between those that are fully implemented, an idea of the back of an envelope, or anything in between.

Traceability

Traceability is always a hot topic. GS1 DL allows you to link to batch level traceability information that cannot easily be printed on a pack in any detail.

Recall status

An item can be linked to an API that provides the recall status of the item. This is particularly useful if the information is at batch level.

Healthcare information

Before beginning a medical procedure, perhaps an operation, clinical staff may want to look up detailed, up to date information about the items to be used, particularly any medical devices such as implants. GS1 Digital Link can be used to enable a simple scan to lead to the most up to date and authoritative information.

Patient information

In most countries, patient information leaflets are required to be included in all packs of medicine sold. In Europe alone, 6 billion such leaflets are printed annually. Imagine a printer that can print out 2 leaflets a second. It would take nearly 100 years to print out that number of leaflets. Any reduction in the need to print physical leaflets would be a major cost saving. GS1 Digital Link provides a simple, standards-based, non-proprietary means to achieve simple linkage from pack to electronic leaflet.

FIFO

Before a case is unpacked and the contents put on the shelf, a store associate can scan the case and discover whether that is the oldest case in the inventory and therefore the correct one to use.

Where's my stuff?

A redirection target can be updated at any time by simply updating the link in the resolver. One possible use of this ability is to update the relevant link as an item moves through the supply chain. Therefore, asking Where's my stuff? can always be pointed to the current custodian's information system.

Consumer information

This is probably the most obvious use case - linking an item to its online description.