Innovation at GS1 US

Supply chain innovation requires a strong foundation: unique product identification. Explore our innovation-focused resources, events, and news to learn more about how the intersection of emerging technologies and GS1 Standards can move your business forward.

Emerging Topics

Addressing the evolving needs of business using GS1 Standards

Marketplace shifts and industry disruptions create ever-changing needs and opportunities for the business community. See how GS1 US® is working with a variety of industries and organizations as they look forward to address their business challenges using the power of GS1 Standards.

  • Helping companies do business with the Department of Defense

    GS1 Standards help the aerospace and defense community speak a “common language,” address inefficient business processes, and improve supply chain management in order to reduce costs and improve accuracy and security. GS1 US® partners include the U.S. Department of Defense Under the Secretary of Defense’s Office, the Defense Logistics Agencies, NATO, the Air Transport Association, and the International Air Transport Association.

  • Aerospace and Defense Industry Icon

The Department of Defense (DoD) strongly encourages companies wishing to do business with the agency to adopt the following GS1 Standards into their business practices, as appropriate.

Unique Identification (UID) Initiative

The following GS1 identification numbers are recognized by the Department of Defense under the DoD Unique Identification Guideline:

Department of Defense RFID Program

At its basic level, radio frequency identification (RFID) is a carrier of data and, just like the barcode, is based on GS1 Standards. However, unlike the barcode, an RFID tag can carry a much more granular and dynamic level of data. Data carried on an RFID tag can be added to or modified as the tagged item moves. RFID enables companies to more efficiently collaborate with trading partners, reduce errors, and improve inventory management and security.

As a complement to the UID Program, the Department of Defense requires contractors supplying materials to DoD to use passive RFID tags (see acquisition regulation DFARS 252), based on Electronic Product Code (EPC®)-based RFID technology.

Additional Resources

Learn more about GS1 US programs, educational materials, and events to help companies in the aerospace and defense industry implement GS1 Standards:

Next Level Supply Chain with GS1 US

Check out the Next Level Supply Chain Podcast

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Need a hand?

If you need help getting started or support with any aspect of your GS1 US membership, please get in touch.