What are those funny barcode-looking things?

Have you picked up a bottle of Heinz ketchup and noticed a black and white square on the back that looks like the printer may have misprinted a bar code? Or have you seen a flyer for a musical act and all that is displayed for details is this square symbol made up of little rectangular shapes?

Those are called QR Codes.

First making their appearance in Japan over a decade ago, QR codes are quickly becoming a growing trend in the US.

According to Wikipedia, a QR code is similar to a bar code in that it’s a type of matrix barcode; or in easier terms, a two-dimensional code. The QR code is one of the most popular types of two-dimensional codes, and its contents are decoded at high speed. Each has its own digital fingerprint that makes it unique.

Currently, QR codes are used over a variety of applications, including tracking, previewing a trailer for a movie, in-store product labeling, and business promotions. Authors are even able to use a QR code that links your phone to a fully functioning LIKE button on a Facebook page. Another example of using these codes is when you register your business with Google Places; you receive a decal to display at your business that includes a code to your website. This is a great opportunity to share hours of operation and promotions you have to offer! Realtors have also started to go with this new trend, allowing you to scan a QR code, which will then take you to a YouTube video for a virtual tour of the home.

QR codes can lead to:

  • Product details/additional information
  • Contact information (email address)
  • Offer/Promotion details
  • Coupons
  • Twitter/Facebook IDs
  • Links to YouTube
  • Directions to business location
  • Customer feedback forms

Having a QR code on business cards is becoming more popular. Brochures and marketing materials are other places where companies are finding it to be successful. Here are some other places businesses are using this promotional tool:

  • Menus at restaurants
  • Receipts
  • Sides of trucks or trailers
  • Packaging labels
  • Nametags

We can implement QR codes into your everyday business structure which will in turn help your current and future clients. We can help you decide the best landing place for your QR code. When sending people to your site, you should be sure that your site is mobile friendly, which of course, we can help with that, too!