QR Codes: A Scan Above the Rest

Quick Response Codes (QR Codes) are slowly gaining popularity among US businesses. You can buy Qrapping paper, scan tags at Macy’s for a ‘Backstage Pass,’ scan a real estate sign for the property’s listing information and photos, use your phone as an airline boarding pass, or pay for your morning Starbucks.

QR codes are used in almost all media: in magazines, brochures, business cards, on video, on signs, on tags and labels, and on cars, trucks, or trailers. QR codes are versatile as they can perform a variety of functions:

• link to a website or landing page
• allow for instant payment
• play a video
• display photos or text
• provide driving directions
• link to coupons and special offers
• trigger phone functions: making a call, opening email or text messaging (IM or SMS)
• activate an online function: ‘liking’ a Facebook Page or following a Twitter feed

 QR code usage in the United States has increased 1,200% from July to December 2010. QR codes are becoming more customizable in terms of including adding logos and changing the color or size. QR codes are universal and can be scanned using an iPhone, Blackberry, Android, or other Smartphone provided the user has downloaded one of the many free QR readers. Microsoft has released an MS tag which can only be read by a Microsoft Tag Reader, but allows for more creative designs.

Examples of Today

Google Places will provide you with a window decal which includes a QR code to your company’s website, hours of operation, or current specials once you register your local business.

A QR code present at the end of this online movie trailer links the user to their Facebook Page where the user can Fan or Like the page, read the latest news releases, or comment on the movie.

Ralph Lauren uses a QR code to direct viewers to their mobile website where they can browse merchandise, sign up for newsletters, or purchase an item.

Many airlines are using QR codes as a digital boarding pass for passengers on domestic and international flights.

Look for QR codes in your life, and let us know what you discover!  What is your opinion of QR Codes? How and where are you interacting with QR Codes?