Overview

Countryside Partnerships is the UK's leading mixed-tenure developer, bringing together modern and efficient delivery methods to create sustainable communities where people love to live.

With over 60 years' experience in building homes and placemaking, some 40 years ago the company took its first steps into the world of partnerships, building relationships between the public and private sector to increase housing supply.

Countryside's placemaking approach not only builds high-quality homes, but also considers the social and digital infrastructure, transport and green spaces needed to nurture vibrant, connected and healthy communities. Engaging with and listening to local communities and partners are key to this work.

Their commitment to delivering sustainable communities and ensuring a better quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come, is further supported by their social and economic programme of training, and local and wider employment opportunities.

Challenges

Countryside Partnerships required a barcoding and labelling solution that could withstand a harsh manufacturing environment while providing reliable product identification and traceability throughout the production process and beyond.

The organisation also needed a solution that could integrate seamlessly with its Microsoft Dynamics Navision ERP system, enabling the business to track products, monitor stock levels and access real-time operational information.

Our Approach

Countryside selected Bar Code Data as its partner due to our extensive experience and proven track record in delivering specialist barcode applications for challenging environments.

Bar Code Data recommended the lightweight and versatile Zebra MC3300 mobile computer for barcode scanning and product tracking. Its rugged design, excellent IP rating and robust drop specification make it ideally suited to demanding manufacturing environments.

To complement the mobile devices, Bar Code Data implemented two Zebra industrial printers: the ZT230 and the 220Xi4. The ZT230 combines the durability of a metal frame and cover with an intuitive graphical interface and high ribbon capacity, while the 220Xi4 delivers rugged reliability and superior print quality for industrial applications.
The solution integrates directly with Microsoft Dynamics Navision and is fully operational, enabling products to be tracked throughout the manufacturing process while providing real-time, business-critical data on order status, stock levels and product usage.

Using Zebra's Printer Profile Manager, part of Zebra's Print DNA suite of software tools, Countryside can maximise printer uptime and remotely manage its printer estate, reducing the need for IT teams to travel to sites to resolve issues.

To streamline procurement and ensure all consumables met the required specification for use in harsh environments, Bar Code Data also supplies labels, ribbons and Zebra OneCare maintenance services as part of the complete solution.

Benefits to Customer

  • Improved visibility of products throughout the manufacturing process. 
  • Real-time access to order status and stock information.
  • Increased traceability and control of products and materials.
  • Rugged hardware designed to withstand demanding manufacturing environments.
  • Simplified printer management through remote administration capabilities.
  • A fully integrated solution combining hardware, software, labels and support from a single supplier.

The Result

The solution delivered by Bar Code Data has provided Countryside Partnerships with a robust and reliable barcode tracking system capable of operating within a demanding manufacturing environment. By integrating directly with Microsoft Dynamics Navision, the solution has enabled the business to improve product traceability, increase visibility of stock and order status, and provide real-time information throughout the manufacturing process.

The introduction of rugged mobile computing and industrial printing technology has improved operational efficiency and reduced manual processes, while Zebra's Printer Profile Manager has simplified printer management and minimised downtime through remote administration capabilities.

By combining hardware, software, labels and ongoing support into a single, integrated solution, Bar Code Data has delivered a scalable platform that supports Countryside's manufacturing operations today and provides a foundation for future growth and continued process improvement.

Customer Testimonial

“We selected Bar Code Data as our partner on this turnkey project as they demonstrated the confidence in being able to offer the right solution that would meet our needs. As a Zebra Premier Partner the range of options available to us from BCD was extensive, after careful consideration we received their proposal and recommendations.
The supply of the equipment was handled in an efficient and speedy manner and the installation, training and go live was fully supported by the technical team at BCD. We are delighted with the solution and now look forward to working with BCD going forward."

Please contact us to speak to our expert team.