Validation Pattern Matching

What is Pattern Matching in Validation?

Pattern matching is a powerful feature that allows you to define how an app responds to barcode scans that fit a specific “pattern.” Patterns are defined based on the following elements:

• Length: Barcodes must match the specified length.
• Required Characters: Barcodes must match the exact positions of letters, numbers, or symbols defined in the pattern.
• Wildcards: Barcodes can contain any character in positions marked by the ? symbol.

Example Pattern:
If the pattern is F767-??????, any barcode starting with F767- and followed by six characters will match.

Pattern Validation and Duplicate Checking Options

When creating a ‘Validate Scans’ service, you can choose from two primary options:

1. Apply a Validation Pattern:
   • Enable this option to validate scanned barcodes against a predefined pattern. Benefits include:
     • Easily add unrecognized barcode values to the database.
     • Force an invalid response for specific matches, e.g., discontinued items.
2. Standard Validation Service:
   • If you don’t use a validation pattern, configure your service using the Alter Scan Value feature to process scan values.

Key Use Cases for Validation Patterns

Validation patterns allow you to manage scans effectively without requiring a complete database. Common use cases include:

• Ticket Sales: Validate and detect duplicate ticket scans without uploading ticket IDs.
• Privacy Concerns: Avoid uploading sensitive databases (e.g., student or patient IDs).
• Large Databases: Manage extensive databases like coupon IDs more efficiently.
• Offline Support: Store scanned values on the device to check for duplicates and provide reporting.

Setting Up a Validation Pattern Matching Service

Follow these steps to configure a validation pattern:

1. Create or Edit a Validation Service:
   • Start by creating a new validation service or modifying an existing one.
2. Enable Pattern Matching:
   • Check the ‘Apply a Validation Pattern’ box to access pattern settings.
3. Define Your Pattern:
   • Use characters and the wildcard ? to specify your desired pattern.
4. Set a Response Message:
   • Enter the message to display when the scanned barcode matches the pattern.
5. Optional: Add Values to Database:
   • Check the box ‘Add scanned value and response to the database when a match is made’ to save barcodes and their validation status.
6. Save Your Configuration:
   • Click ‘Save and Continue’ to apply the settings.

Note: To enable duplicate scanning detection, ensure that scanned values are 100 characters or fewer. Use the Alter Scan Value feature to truncate longer values if needed.

Using Regular Expressions (Regex) in Validation Patterns

You can enhance validation patterns with regex to allow more complex matching scenarios. Check the ‘Use Regular Expression’ box and input your regex script.