Encoding additional information using Application Identifiers
Application Identifiers (AI's) are globally determined "prefixes" used to identify additional information, such as lot number or best before date, and to encode it in the same data carrier sequentially.
By using these AI’s, a data string which, aside from an identification number, also contains additional information which can be fully automatically transferred and then dissected piece by piece.
For example, it is possible to encode a GTIN and a lot number in the same data carrier and then exchange them with trading partners as separate pieces of information.
On the website of GS1 Global, you will find an overview of all agreed Application Identifiers.