Bar code SMS takes place when 1D or 2D bar code images are sent to mobile phones. The user saves the image and present it at the access / pay point. Bar codes could be sent using MMS, EMS or SMS technology. 1D Images are scanned with standard scanners whereas 2D images would require a 2D scanner.

Anybody that frequents shopping malls are familiar with the bar coding systems used by retailers to ease the line at the pay points. No more long lines at the till as the operator just pulls the merchandise past the scanner and voila the buyer pays and are on their way.

What most all the people do not realize is that the bar coding systems entails more than just the code being scanned with the scanner. The systems normally plugs straight into a database, which is also hooked up with the accounting system and the moment the product is scanned, it deducts the item from the warehouses inventory. Each product in the database has a minimum stock level the moment it reaches that stock level, it sends out an alert that x amount of a merchandise needs to be ordered. Automated, convenient, brain friendly.

The above sample system serves to explain how and why bar codes are used in the offline or sales / Warehousing side of business. Nowadays the same principles apply to mobile technology.

With the ability of bar coding systems to be incorporated with Office functionality, convergence of technology opened a new automation arena in the business world. I am sure all of us at one point or another queued at the movie theatre to watch our favourite movie.

Just imagine no more long lines - you arrive at the movie theatre with your mobile phone, walk past a scanner where a bar code on your mobile phone is scanned and you take your seat to enjoy the movie!!! That is how elegant it could be with mobile ticketing (mobile bar coding).

The process is simple lets make use of e-ticketing as an example:
A customer visits the venues website where they book and pay online. Confirmation of their booking or ticket is received on their mobile phone via bar code SMS. The client saves the bar code SMS and present their mobile phone upon arrival at the venue, where it is scanned and access allowed.

Now that is service