WTF is a QR code?

Posted on January 01, 2014

WTF is a QR code?

"A QR code is a specific matrix bar code (or two-dimensional code) that is readable by dedicated QR readers,smart phones, and to a less common extent, computers with web cams. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded may be text, URL, or other data."

Wikipedia. A QR code can be read by any smart phone device these days, native on the android, and with a dedicated app on the latest iPhone.

Why the hell would I use a QR code?

Although not a new technology, it's only just coming into more widespread use, and there has been some cool applications in the past year or so. As a business, we have to constantly think of new things to stand out from the crowd, QR codes are now one of those options, and are dead easy for anyone to setup and utilise quickly. Some cool applications you could easily implement include:

QR Codes on business cards

Labels

Storefront Displays

T Shirts

QR codes which link to 'Liking' or 'Following' you on various Social Platforms

Get more Email Sign Ups

Link your QR code direct to a phone number so when scanned, your phone rings!

Flyer's

Billboards

Place QR codes on your name tags at your next event

Ok, so how to I create a QR code?

Creating a QR code for use in your marketing could not be easier. Simply decide what you want to display to users, then generate a code. A nice and easy tool can be found at http://qrcode.kaywa.com/. Simply enter a URL, Text, Phone Number, or SMS, then click on 'generate'. In a matter of seconds you have a neat little QR code, ready to insert into your marketing collateral. Using QR codes in your Small Business marketing efforts is a great way to educate and engage with prospective clients, as well as make you stand out from the crowded market place. Best of all, everyone has a smart phone, so its a great way to engage with a user in a way they can immediately connect with you.