QR Codes and How to Use Them

Have you noticed those strange black, square-shaped symbols popping up all over the place lately? They’re called QR codes, and they’re a very advanced version of the common grocery store barcode. Originally created in Japan to help keep track of car parts, the QR code is quickly becoming a globally acknowledged interactive marketing device.

What is a QR code?

    QR (short for quick response) codes are complex matrices that are readable by scanners and, more specifically, smartphone cameras. Since these codes are so complex, they can hold an extremely large amount of information.  This makes them practical tools for business since they can transmit so much information at once.

    When you scan a QR code with your smartphone, for example, the information transferred to your phone activates the web-enabled data saved in the code. Think of it as a step up from the common barcode. A barcode works by scanning the code and accessing a computer network to gather product data. QR codes work in the same way, except by using the Internet as their database rather than a simple computer networks. This makes QR codes multidimensional and capable of holding much larger amounts of information.

How are QR codes used in Business?

    Making a QR code couldn’t be simpler. All you have to do is enter the data you would like to make accessible and click “generate.” There are several great QR generators online; most of them are free to use. If you’d like to try a QR generator, consider the Kaywa generator.

    Once the QR code is generated, make sure to use it effectively. Placing the code on resumes, business cards, posters, flyers as well as billboards is a great way to get information out there.

Why it works

    A QR code is a fun and interesting way of getting information to an audience. Because using a QR code is enjoyable, it gives added value to the information transmitted. Understanding this makes using QR codes for interactive advertising easy. Though these codes are new to America, they have been effective tools for more than a decade in Japan.  If you are looking for a imaginative way to get information out there, consider using a QR code.


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