QR Code - Scan Me!
For anyone who isn’t familiar with QR codes, I’m sure you’ve been wondering what those little black and white, blocky little graphics are that seem to be popping everywhere. QR codes (short for Quick Response) are essentially a two dimensional barcode technology allowing us to store larger amounts of data than the conventional barcode.
With the increase in popularity of smart phones, many of us now have the means to scan these codes at our finger tips, either out-of-the-box or by downloading one of the many free apps on the market. It’s no doubt that QR code will be playing a role in your website design before too long.
What does it mean for me?
QR codes were first invented in 1994, but seem to be popping up more frequently everywhere you turn. I was paying a visit to my local cinema the other day, only to see a QR code printed on a promotional poster, advertising the opportunity to view that particular film’s trailer on YouTube.
In today’s environment, the QR code offers the potential to bridge the gap between traditional advertising methods such as poster, business cards, bill boards and products, and digital devices such as the internet through your iPhone. Put basically, if you read about a new band you like in the NME, you could very soon be able to visit their website, watch their latest video on YouTube, or even download their album from iTunes, just by scanning a barcode on your phone.
The possibilities are Endless!
Common Uses for QR Codes
The data that can be stored using QR Codes commonly includes snippets that are easily interpreted by smart phones.
- Digital Business Cards
- SMS / Email Messages
- Website URL’s
- Telephone Numbers
- General Text
- Calendar Event
- Geo Location
- Wifi Details
- PayPal: Buy It Now
- YouTube Link
- iTunes Link
Where can I get this Technology?
If you haven’t already tried, you can scan the example QR code at the top of this page, which should direct you through to the Creare Homepage.
There are a number of great QR code generators available on the Internet to get you started.
- Kaywa QR Code
Very basic non-commercial QR code generator.
Visit website - QR Code Generator from the ZXing Project
FREE generator offering a wide variety of QR code types.
Visit website - QRStuff
Excellent generator for creating many QR code types. Includes a premium service for generating and printing hi-res graphics.
Visit website
Very nice and informative post. It is essential to realize the potential of QR codes. People are using these codes in innovative ways. They can be used to pass on your contact details, website url or marketing message. The opportunities are endless. Thanks for sharing this helpful post.
Do you know any good apps which can be used to scan these codes?