GS1

Term from Supply Chain Consulting industry explained for recruiters

GS1 is a global organization that creates and maintains standards for business communication, especially in retail and supply chain operations. Think of it as a universal language that helps companies track products and share information. The most familiar example is the barcode you see on products in stores - that's a GS1 standard. Companies use GS1 standards to make sure everyone in the supply chain, from manufacturers to retailers, can accurately identify, track, and share information about products. It's similar to how everyone agrees to drive on the right side of the road - GS1 creates these kinds of rules for business operations.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented GS1 standards for product identification across 50+ warehouses

Led GS1 compliance projects for major retail clients

Trained warehouse staff on GS1 barcode systems and scanning procedures

Achieved GS1 Standards certification for company's inventory management system

Typical job title: "Supply Chain Consultants"

Also try searching for:

Supply Chain Analyst Logistics Coordinator Supply Chain Manager Inventory Manager Standards Implementation Specialist Supply Chain Consultant Product Data Manager

Where to Find Supply Chain Consultants

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement GS1 standards in a company that has never used them before?

Expected Answer: Should discuss conducting assessment of current systems, creating implementation plan, training staff, and ensuring compliance across departments. Should mention importance of stakeholder buy-in and change management.

Q: How do GS1 standards improve supply chain visibility?

Expected Answer: Should explain how standardized identification helps track products, reduces errors, enables better inventory management, and facilitates communication between trading partners.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main types of GS1 identifiers and when do you use each?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic differences between GTINs (for products), GLNs (for locations), and SSCCs (for logistics units) in simple terms.

Q: How do you ensure barcode quality in a warehouse setting?

Expected Answer: Should discuss barcode verification processes, proper printing methods, and importance of regular testing and maintenance of scanning equipment.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a GTIN and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that GTIN is a unique product identifier (like a product's passport number) and how it helps in tracking products through the supply chain.

Q: What are the basic components of a GS1 barcode?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic structure of a barcode, including company prefix, item reference, and check digit in simple terms.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of barcodes and scanning
  • Familiarity with inventory management
  • Basic product identification concepts
  • Understanding of supply chain documentation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Implementation of GS1 standards
  • Barcode verification and quality control
  • Training others on GS1 systems
  • Supply chain process improvement

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic implementation planning
  • Standards compliance management
  • Cross-functional team leadership
  • Supply chain optimization

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic barcode types and their uses
  • Unfamiliarity with supply chain operations
  • Lack of experience with inventory management systems
  • Poor understanding of product identification principles

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