QR Codes: Unlocking Hidden Information

I recently wrote an article on DIYMarketers about QR Codes and mobi tags – you know those black and white images you’ve seen in magazines and in stores, but didn’t know anything about.  Today, I’d like to feature a guest post that will give you a little more education on QR codes and how they will help your small business

These days it seems as if you can do almost anything from your phone – make a call, update your Facebook® status, send an email, watch a video – you name it. One of the latest forms of information sharing for smartphone users is the QR code – a barcode-type image that holds information uncovered when you scan it on your smartphone.

Perhaps you have seen a QR code; companies are using them in their print advertising in magazines and professionals are using them as virtual business cards. But how exactly do you use a QR code and why is it important?

What is a QR code anyhow?

QR stands for “quick response”, as it is intended to be read quickly from a cell phone. The codes have information stored inside, so when you scan the image you will receive the information digitally and at your fingertips. Information could be a website URL, contact information, geographic coordinates or text.

Why are QR codes important?

We live in a world that is increasingly digital – nearly everything is available instantaneously.  QR codes offer consumers another way to find information when they want it, wherever they are.

QR Code Marketing Campaigns

In July 2010, Calvin Klein Jeans jumped on the QR bandwagon by erecting giant QR code billboards in downtown Los Angeles and New York City. When you scanned the code, you were able to view an exclusive 40-second video, luring prospective customers to purchase their high-end apparel line.

Courtesy of: http://hypebeast.com/2010/07/calvin-klein-jeans-qr-code-billboard/

Personal Organization

Are you the type of person who has a rolodex full of old business cards? QR codes allow you to clear the clutter by downloading information directly to where you need it – your phone.

Courtesy of: http://idi.treelogic.com/ing/noticias/noticia10.html

Just think…You could download coupons for your favorite stores right to your phone. Or, you can register for an event while you are out and about, without having to worry about connecting your computer to a free Wi-Fi hotspot.

How do you use a QR code?

First, you will need to install a barcode scanner application to your smartphone. There are dozens from free barcode scanners out there, such as Red Laser for the iPhone® and Barcode Scanner for the Android™. Once you have the app installed on your phone, you are ready to check out the hidden message in the QR code.

Next, open up the application on your phone and scan the QR code; the code can be scanned off an email, computer monitor or printed material. After you scan the code, you will be shown the information embedded within.

If it is a link, you will be able to click it and go directly to the webpage. If it is contact information, you will be able to import it directly into your phone’s address book.

The future of commerce, and even our day-to-day leisure, lies in digital advancements. Becoming accustomed to the use of QR codes will help you stay ahead of the game!

Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions

Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc., iPhone is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.

About the Author: Dana R. DeLapi is the Social Marketing Manager for Rasmussen College, a college that offers an internet marketing specialization. Dana has worked in the fields of social media, interactive marketing, journalism and public relations for more than five years. Dana has a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Central Florida. She also has her Social Media Master certification fromMarket Motive.