Dynamics 365 Field Service : Configure barcode features

Field technicians often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where every second counts. Whether they’re identifying parts, scanning assets, or managing inventory, reducing manual data entry and human error is key. That’s where barcode scanning becomes a game-changer in Dynamics 365 Field Service.

Microsoft provides native barcode support within Field Service mobile and Dynamics 365 to help streamline operations and improve data accuracy. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to configure barcode features and make the most out of this powerful functionality.

Why Use Barcodes in Field Service?

Before diving into setup, here’s why barcodes matter:

  • Quick identification of assets, products, and parts
  •  Accurate inventory updates and movement tracking
  •  Error-free data capture (no manual typing!)
  •  Real-time updates to work orders and asset history
  •  Improved technician productivity and customer satisfaction

Key Barcode Scenarios in Field Service

Some of the most common use cases for barcode scanning include:

  • Scanning work order products
  • Identifying customer assets
  • Managing inventory levels in warehouses and vans
  • Tracking equipment repairs or replacements
  • Linking IoT-enabled devices

Components Involved in Barcode Configuration

To use barcode functionality, you'll typically work with:

  • Field Service (Dynamics 365 app)
  • Field Service Mobile App (Power Apps-based)
  • Model-driven forms with barcode-enabled fields
  • Device camera (or dedicated barcode scanners)

Step-by-Step: How to Configure Barcode Features

Enable Barcode Scanning in Field Service Mobile

Field Service (FS) Mobile uses Power Apps and supports native barcode scanning.

  •  Go to Power Apps → Open your Field Service Mobile App.
  •  Navigate to the form (e.g., Work Order Product, Asset) where you want to scan a barcode.
  •  Add a text field (like Serial Number or Product ID) and make sure its format allows barcode values.

Pro Tip: Barcode fields should be text fields to capture alphanumeric codes.

Enable Barcode Scanner on the Field

In the form editor of the model-driven app (Field Service):

  •  Select the field (e.g., `Customer Asset > Serial Number`)
  •  In the field properties, toggle on “Enable Barcode Scanner”

This allows the mobile app to use the device’s camera to scan and populate the field.

Publish and Test in the Mobile App

 Publish the app changes.

  •  Open Field Service Mobile App.
  •  Navigate to the form and tap the barcode icon next to the field.
  •  Use the camera to scan a barcode—voilà! The field auto-populates with the scanned value.

Optional: Restrict by Security Roles

Not every user should have access to barcode functionality. You can configure permissions:

  •  Limit form or field access by security role
  •  Customize access with JavaScript rules or Business Rules
  •  Create a dedicated technician experience with tailored forms and views

Advanced Scenario: Inventory & Asset Tracking with Barcodes

Imagine a technician receives a list of parts to install on a customer site. With barcodes:

1. Technician scans each work order product before installation.

2. The product is automatically marked as installed, and inventory is adjusted.

3. Technician scans the customer asset barcode to update asset records and track warranty.

No typing, no guesswork—just fast, accurate service.

Testing and Supported Barcode Types

Dynamics 365 supports most common barcode types including:

  •  Code128
  •  Code39
  •  QR Codes
  •  EAN / UPC

Works with both Android and iOS devices using the built-in camera.

Tools & Extensions (Optional)

For advanced barcode management:

  •  Use Power Automate to trigger workflows when a barcode is scanned
  •  Integrate with Azure Blob Storage to link barcode scans with documents
  •  Leverage Power BI for reporting scanned vs. unscanned items

Final Thoughts

Barcode scanning may seem like a small addition, but its impact in Field Service operations is huge. Whether you’re managing assets, fulfilling work orders, or reducing inventory errors—barcode features in Dynamics 365 Field Service bring speed, precision, and efficiency to the front lines.

By following the steps in this guide, you can empower your technicians to scan, update, and resolve issues faster than ever.

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