Field Sample Traceability System Using QR Codes and the Google Sheets Platform


DOI: https://doi.org/10.15308/Sinteza-2026-315-321
Authors:
Dejan Jordanović
Stefan Trujić
Miodrag Živković

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Keywords:
Sample Traceability, QR Codes, Google Sheets, Google Apps Script, Mobile Automation


Abstract:
Efficient traceability of field samples is a critical requirement in laboratory workflows, particularly in institutions that process large numbers of geological, environmental, and industrial samples. Conventional procedures based on handwritten labels, manual spreadsheet entry, and phone-based coordination are often slow, error-prone, and difficult to monitor in real time. This paper presents the design and implementation of a low-cost field sample traceability system utilizing QR codes, Google Sheets, Google Apps Script, and shortcutbased mobile clients on Android and iPhone devices. The proposed solution enables unique sample identification, rapid status updates through QR scanning, and centralized monitoring of sample movement from field collection to laboratory processing. The system was designed so that personnel can mark samples as sent, received, in progress, or completed without directly editing the spreadsheet. Instead, mobile devices invoke a web endpoint implemented in Google Apps Script, which updates the corresponding spreadsheet record and returns a confirmation message to the operator. The proposed architecture improves sample visibility, reduces manual data entry, minimizes duplicate or inconsistent status records, and provides a practical implementation path without the need for a custom native mobile application. The paper argues that accessible cloud tools and lightweight mobile automation can provide an effective and scalable platform for sample traceability in laboratory environments with limited development resources.

CITATION:

IEEE format

D. Jordanović, S. Trujić, M. Živković, “Field Sample Traceability System Using QR Codes and the Google Sheets Platform,” in Sinteza 2026 - International Scientific Conference on Information Technology, Computer Science, and Data Science, Belgrade, Singidunum University, Serbia, 2026, pp. 315-321. doi:10.15308/Sinteza-2026-315-321

APA format

Jordanović, D., Trujić, S., Živković, M. (2026). Field Sample Traceability System Using QR Codes and the Google Sheets Platform. Paper presented at Sinteza 2026 - International Scientific Conference on Information Technology, Computer Science, and Data Science. doi:10.15308/Sinteza-2026-315-321

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