The Quick Response or QR Code is a two-dimensional matrix barcode used in modern marketing. The matrix is readable by compatible barcode scanners and the majority of camera-equipped mobile phones. The Quick Response Code was originally developed by a subsidiary of Toyota in Japan, where the Quick Response Code has become omnipresent since their introduction in 1984. Since this time QR Codes have been becoming increasingly popular by consumers in the Scranton/Wilkes Barre NEPA area.
QR Code Design
Design wise, the Quick Response Code differs from the dozen or so other two-dimensional barcodes because the code was designed for quick decoding on mobile devices. Additionally, the Quick Response Code matrix is built to hold over 4,000 alphanumeric characters, making the codes perfect for scanning large amounts of information for advertising purposes. While originally used to track vehicle parts, the Quick Response Code is now primarily used for transferring contact information and for marketing to customers via their mobile devices. Their power in marketing comes through curiosity. Customers cannot help but use their mobile device to discover what lays hidden within the QR Code. The fact that the technology is new in the NEPA market makes the Quick Response Code that much more attractive.
Barcodes Can Store a Variety of Data
A traditional 1D barcode (UPC/EAN) stores up to 30 numbers, while a 2D barcode (QR) can store up to 7,089 numbers. The additional storage capacity accommodates a variety of data beyond numbers:
- Text
- Landing Pages
- Menus
- Hyperlink
- Telephone numbers
- SMS/MMS message
- Email (Send message)
- Coupons
- Calendar entry (vCalendar)
- Website
Storing a hyperlink presents a myriad of possibilities beyond just loading a web page — play a video, download a mobile app, check-in on Foursquare, update a Twitter status, “Like” a Facebook page, display map directions, and more.
QR Codes Can be Placed in and on Nearly Any Location
Once the barcode image is created, it can be printed on nearly any surface and location — The Target Shopper, newspapers, TV ads, billboards, tattoos, product packaging, clothing labels, I’ve even recently saw a QR Code on a cake frosting package. This then enables your business to drive traffic, interaction, and conversion from anywhere. 2D QR Codes excel at bringing non-digital media to life. Although other two-dimensional barcode styles exist, the Quick Response Code is rapidly being adopted by all types of businesses and is quickly becoming a way for the education and tourism industries to replace large blocks of text and signage with a digital link. The near universal support of the Quick Response Code on mobile devices and increasing customer awareness of the codes makes them the leading choice in two-dimensional barcode marketing.
To hear more about adding QR Codes to your Marketing Mix contact PRM Ad Group Inc. Inc.