jäljittevyys

Jäljittevyys, or traceability, is the ability to identify and verify the history, location, or use of an item by means of recorded data along its lifecycle or supply chain. The concept applies to products, raw materials, components, and data processes, and it is widely used in manufacturing, food safety, pharmaceuticals, and environmental monitoring.

Two main directions govern jäljittevyys: backward traceability (tracing inputs back to suppliers and origins) and forward traceability (following outputs to customers or destinations). It relies on unique identifiers like batch numbers, serial numbers, QR codes, or RFID, and on integrated data systems such as ERP, MES, or LIMS.

Standards and practices: jäljittevyys is supported by international standards such as GS1 barcoding and data carriers; ISO 9001 quality management and ISO 22000 food safety require traceability capabilities; many industries also regulate traceability for recalls and safety audits.

Benefits include improved safety and regulatory compliance, enabling efficient product recalls, supporting quality control and inventory management, and enhancing transparency of provenance in supply chains.

Challenges and implementation: it requires data integrity, interoperable systems, data governance, and upfront costs, plus organizational coordination across suppliers and internal functions. Best practices include defining scope, identifying critical control points, ensuring reliable data capture at each step, and conducting regular data quality checks.