Perhaps you have noticed a little maze like image stamped in the corner of a brochure, a product, or a store window. If you looked closely, you would see this is not a map of the store or a board game, it is QR Code.

Denso Wave developed QR Code as the need to store more information in scanned codes became apparent. Using multiple bar codes in a single layout increases data capacity, but can also take up a lot of space. A limitation of standard bar code is that it can only be read in one direction. A 2D Code, such as QR Code, can be read in two directions. This greatly increases the data storage potential for the same amount of printed space. QR Code is an efficient 2D code with the ability to store alphanumeric characters, web addresses, symbols, binary, and other types of information.

QR Code comes in 40 versions, each version having a different number of modules. The module count, or module configuration, is stated as an expression (horizontal number x vertical number). For example, Version 1 (21 x 21 module count), Version 2 (25 x 25 module count), and so forth. Version 40 (177 x 177) is the highest level.

So what can you do with these cool little matrix boxes? First of all, the code is read by modern day smart phones. This opens the flood gates for interactive uses. Google has been using QR Code with its Place Pages. A Place Page organizes, in webpage form, information about businesses, interesting locations, buildings – you name it. Google has sent window stickers containing QR Code to numerous businesses in its Google Places listings. The stickers can be scanned by a smart phone, which in turn will take them to the mobile Place Page for that business.

The possibilities for QR Code use are numerous and diverse. A QR Code could provide visitor information while someone is visiting a historic site. It could retrieve the schedule for a subway station, or download the menu while you are standing outside a restaurant. Real estate agents can use QR Codes on flyers, brochures, or For Sale signs to provide information about the specific property or to link to their profile. In that regard, businesses exist that supply QR Code marketing support services to real estate agents.

When storing a small amount of data, such as a serial number, Micro QR Code can be used which has an even smaller footprint. Micro QR Code may be a better choice for electronics or medical supplies where space is a premium. The code could contain a part number, serial number, or some other product code. Micro QR Code could be used on any surface large enough to display it.

QR Code has a better foothold in Japan, but is being deployed in the U.S. for government and public uses. Whether the buzz continues is yet to be determined, but the expansion of QR Code use in the U.S. seems likely to continue as this nifty little matrix has a lot of potential.

Call Horton Group in Nashville, for ways to utilize QR Codes in your marketing! 615-292-8642.

Sources:
QR Code ® is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED

Google Favorite Places; “What’s That Barcode”;

Drivebuy Technologies