Key code

Numeric or alphanumeric code used to represent a particular advertisement, cents-off coupon, catalog, mailing package, list, offer, test, effort, and so forth. Key codes are an essential tool for tracking and controlling promotion response. Keys are the basis for statistical analyses that evaluate the relative profitability and effectiveness of the aforementioned promotion campaign components. For example, a key code may be used to identify several different direct-mail packages being mailed to segments of the same list; any difference in response between the groups can then be attributed to the particular package and not to the list, thereby enabling the marketer to identify the best package. As another example, a Christmas gift catalog with three different covers (A, B, and C) is sent to a house list of previous catalog buyers. The first digit of the key code (X) identifies it as the Christmas catalog. The second digit identifies the cover, and the third digit represents the list (H). Each catalog order form would have a key code printed on it as follows: XAH, XBH, and XCH. When the orders are entered to the fulfillment system, the key code is also entered. Statistics can then be generated, indicating the number and average value of purchases generated by each version of the catalog. See also homogenization.

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A key code is a series of alphanumeric characters used by locksmiths to create a key. There are two kinds of key codes: blind codes and bitting codes.

Blind codes

These are codes that require a chart or computer program to translate the blind code to a bitting code, which is used to create the actual key. Most key codes are blind codes, and publication of code books or software are restricted to licensed locksmiths in most jurisdictions for security reasons. Some locksmiths also create their own blind coding systems for identifying key systems they installed, or for customer identification and authorization in high security systems. Example: 23N7 (General Motors) or X2100 (Nissan) are examples of blind codes used for automotive ignition keys.

Many computer-generated master keying charts also utilize blind codes for identifying individual change keys and masters within the system.

Bitting code

The translated blind code which the locksmith actually uses to cut each cut on a blank key. Example: padlock blind code W123 translates to bitting code 25313, to which the locksmith would cut the key with his code machine by setting it to 25313.

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