Traceability and standardized data drive digitization in the construction industry

The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector is experiencing rapid advances in the digitization of products and processes. Construction companies, designers, and retailers are now demanding reliable technical information, traceability, and structured data, which transforms construction materials into true digital objects integrated into projects and management systems.

At Expo Revestir 2026, held from March 9 to 13 at São Paulo Expo, the Brazilian Automation Association-GS1 Brazil will present how digitization based on standardized data and 2D codes allows manufacturers, designers, distributors, and retailers to connect within the same information infrastructure.

During the event, the entity will demonstrate how a product identified by a global standard barcode can become a digital object integrated with BIM (Building Information Modeling). The idea is to allow the manufacturer's official data to accompany the item from the projeto specification projeto the sale to the end consumer.

The importance of centralized and standardized product data, structured according to GS1 standards and made available in a single, reliable information base, which enables data sharing and integration throughout the construction materials chain, will also be highlighted. The demonstration at the association's booth will be in partnership with the software house FF Solutions, focusing on demonstrating, in practice, the potential of standardizing digital information on building materials applied to BIM projects.

FF Solutions and GS1 Brazil propose to offer an immersive experience through the use of VR glasses and mobile devices to demonstrate the traceability of material information, from projeto construction. The presentation will highlight the importance of data consistency between physical and digital media through the use of modular BIM libraries, the organization and identification of assets to be built and monitored, and integration with the construction site context, reinforcing the importance of data governance throughout the projeto lifecycle.

This approach allows physical products to be born digital, with a unique identity based on the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), ensuring consistency between the product specified in projeto, the product manufactured by the industry, and the product sold at retail.

In practice, digitization based on GS1 standards allows for greater traceability, integration between industry, projeto retail, logistics automation, and reliability of technical information. This process reduces inconsistencies between what was specified and what is actually used in construction projects.

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Expansion of the 2D Code

Another highlight of the participation will be the expansion of 2D codes in the identification of ceramic tiles and paints, which automates logistics processes and retail management of construction materials.

The initiative is being developed in partnership with industry entities and is part of a project that began in 2013 with a focus on standardizing logistics labels for ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, and, more recently, paints.

Two-dimensional codes—such as the GS1 Standard QR Code and GS1 DataMatrix—allow multiple pieces of information to be stored in a single symbol, including GTIN, batch, manufacturing and expiration dates, shade, and other technical attributes.

This evolution transforms packaging into a carrier of structured data to enable unit traceability of products, process automation, and greater operational control in retail.

During Expo Revestir, GS1 Brazil will also highlight the importance of structured product registration in the National Product Registry (CNP) as a basis for integration with digital platforms, engineering systems, and commercial automation solutions.

With the advancement of digitization in the sector, the availability of standardized data becomes a decisive factor for the competitiveness of companies and increases the visibility of products in projects, marketplaces, and systems used by designers and construction companies.

“The expansion of the 2D Code consolidates a reliable identification infrastructure for the construction industry. We offer a solid product database, built up over more than 50 years, which strengthens the operational efficiency, traceability, and competitiveness of the chain. At the same time, GS1 Brazil reinforces its role as a benchmark in standards and standardized product data, supporting the sector in the digital transformation of construction and promoting quality, transparency, and sustainability," says João Carlos de Oliveira, president of the Brazilian Automation Association-GS1 Brazil.

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About the Brazilian Automation Association - GS1 Brazil

The Brazilian Automation Association-GS1 Brazil is a multisectoral non-profit organization that has been operating in the country since 1983. Its main purpose is to promote greater efficiency and sustainability for businesses, while contributing to the safety and quality of life of society. Although widely recognized for assigning barcodes to product packaging, the entity drives automation and process standardization, playing an essential role in the functioning of the supply chain and socioeconomic development. 

For consumers, the benefits include security, transparency in product information, speed in purchasing, and greater interaction with manufacturers through the GS1 Standard QR Code. GS1 Brazil has more than 59,000 member companies, representing 36% of GDP and 12% of formal jobs, and operates in more than 40 sectors of the economy, in addition to strengthening commercial relationships and the competitiveness of companies. More information here.

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