Frequently Asked Questions

What barcode formats are supported?

Healthcare Supply Manager supports all major barcode formats including GS1-128, GS1 DataMatrix, HIBC, UPC, EAN, Code 128, Code 39, and QR codes. GS1 healthcare barcodes provide the most information including GTIN, lot number, expiration date, and serial number.

Does the app work offline?

Yes. All core features work completely offline on mobile and desktop. Your inventory data is stored locally on your device. The only features requiring internet are FDA UDI database lookups and optional cloud sync.

How do I backup my data?

You have several backup options:

• CSV Export: Go to Menu › Export to create a CSV file you can save or email
• Cloud Sync: Enable Firebase backup in Settings (requires account setup)
• Device Backup: Your data is included in your device's standard backup if enabled

Can multiple users share the same inventory?

Yes. With cloud sync enabled, multiple team members can access the same inventory from different devices. Simply sign in with the same Google account or invite team members to share your inventory. Changes sync automatically across all devices in real-time.

What does GTIN mean?

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a unique identifier for products. It's the number encoded in barcodes and is used worldwide to identify healthcare products. Common formats are GTIN-14 (14 digits) and GTIN-13 (13 digits, same as EAN-13).

Why doesn't the FDA lookup find my product?

The FDA GUDID database only contains medical devices that are required to have a UDI. Pharmaceuticals, OTC products, and some exempt devices may not be listed. You can still manually enter product information.

How do I transfer data to a new phone?

1. On your old phone, go to Menu › Export › Full Backup
2. Save the backup file to cloud storage or email it to yourself
3. Install the app on your new phone
4. Go to Menu › Import › Restore Backup
5. Select your backup file

What's the difference between "Adjust" and "Waste" usage types?

Adjust: Use when correcting inventory errors (count was wrong, item was miscounted). Waste: Use when removing items that can no longer be used (expired, damaged, contaminated). The distinction helps with accurate reporting.

Troubleshooting

The camera won't scan barcodes

• Check permissions: Go to device Settings › Apps › Healthcare Supply Manager › Permissions and ensure Camera is enabled
• Clean the camera lens: Smudges can prevent accurate scanning
• Improve lighting: Ensure the barcode is well-lit without glare
• Try manual entry: Tap the keyboard icon to enter the barcode number manually
• Restart the app: Close and reopen the app

Notifications aren't working

1. Check that notifications are enabled in app Settings
2. Verify device notification settings: Settings › Apps › Healthcare Supply Manager › Notifications
3. Ensure the app isn't being killed by battery optimization: Settings › Battery › Healthcare Supply Manager › Don't optimize
4. Check Do Not Disturb settings

The app is running slowly

• Clear old data: Delete scan history older than 30 days
• Reduce inventory: Remove items that are no longer being tracked
• Restart device: A fresh start can help performance
• Check storage: Ensure your device has sufficient free space
• Update the app: Make sure you have the latest version

Expiration dates are showing incorrectly

GS1 barcodes encode dates in YYMMDD format. If day is "00", it means end of month. Check:

• The barcode was scanned correctly
• Your device's date/time settings are correct
• For manual entries, verify the date format used

How do I report a bug or request a feature?

We appreciate your feedback. You can:

• Email us at support@ledesign.dev
• Use the in-app feedback option: Menu › Help › Send Feedback
• Leave a review on the App Store or Google Play Store

Is my data secure?

Yes. Your data is protected with multiple layers of security:

• Local encryption: Database is encrypted using SQLCipher where available
• Cloud encryption: All cloud data is encrypted in transit and at rest
• Secure storage: Sensitive data uses platform secure storage

For more details, see our Privacy Policy.