A QR (Quick Response) code works similarly to barcodes that can be found on most products. Each QR code consists of squares and dots that represent different pieces of information. When scanned by your mobile device, the unique pattern on the QR code translates into readable data. QR Codes will take you directly to a specific webpage, menu, payment screen, app, or offer specific information unique to the code.
QR Codes have been around since 1994. Invented by Masahiro Hara from the Japanese company Denso Wave. The initial design was influenced by the black and white pieces on a Go board. Its purpose was to track vehicles during manufacturing; it was designed to allow high-speed component scanning.
The QR Code is rising in popularity and is rapidly becoming a go-to in marketing services and businesses alike. They found a new life when the pandemic hit, and the need for touch-free and online solutions rose. They are contactless, touchless, and easy to use. QR Codes are becoming more popular because the readers are now native to smartphone cameras, so users no longer need to download a separate app to scan the code. A user can easily take out their mobile phone and seamlessly scan the code with their camera on their mobile device.
Let’s take a look at some of the many uses a QR Code can be used for:
- Directing traffic to LinkedIn profiles
- Taking you to a website
- Lead to specific information
- Bring you to a donation page
- Direct you to sign up for an email list or newsletter
- To view business cards and brochures
- Take people to a page with more information that could not fit on a brochure or ad
- Link to a coupon or discount for a product or service that could persuade a sale
- Take you to a digital menu for a restaurant, hair salon, or catering business
- To purchase entertainment tickets or enter a contest
- Lead you to a social media account to increase your following
- Link to a video on YouTube
- View warranty information
- Lead you to a map
- Enhance tours by linking to more information
- View a political candidate website or donation page
- Much more
Using a QR Code coaxes interested prospects down the conversion funnel with little effort. I expect that QR Codes will be here for years to come. For example, self-guided tours have become popular by way of placing QR Codes at a place, historic site, or work of art by connecting users with more information. The opportunities with using a QR Code are endless.
If you need a QR Code created feel free to reach out!
Mary Ann Hill
Internet Marketing Solutions Agency LLC
Try it!
This QR Code leads to my home page: