A QR Code is a matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code), readable by QR scanners, mobile phones with a camera, and smartphones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on white background. The information encoded can be text, URL or other data.
Common in Japan, where it was created by Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave in 1994, the QR code is one of the most popular types of two-dimensional barcodes. QR is the abbreviation for Quick Response, as the creator intended the code to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.
A QR Code can be printed on a product, sign, apparel, embedded on a website and once scanned can direct the person to get more information about your service or product.
Best Buy has QR Codes next to pricing information of their electronics right in the store. Quickly scan the QR Code and you have information about the product along with product reviews.
Other applications are to point people to product or contact details, special offers, events details, a coupon, a free download, point people to twitter, Facebook, your Blog, My Space or a link to a YouTube Video. This information is stored on the mobile device so that they customer can refer to it again and again.
Not all customers will use this feature, but it will be a differentiating mark between you and your competition. Those who do use this technology will see it as a way of gaining more information about your product and service.
The simplest way to implement this is to print the QR code on your business cards, promotional materials, on your website, etc. and have it point to a landing page. We can also work with you and your web designer to create a landing page that you use to capture information and point the client to specials or links to your social media pages where you can further enhance the customer experience.
There are a number of QR code readers available for Droid and iPhones.
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