QR Code? 

What in the world is a QR Code?

 

I couldn’t have answered that question a few weeks ago. However, now that I know what they are and what they do…Oh, boy! This is going to be a GAME CHANGER for ANY type of advertising or promotion…from the brick and mortar business to the online businesses.

So what is it?

A QR Code is a matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code), readable by QR scanners, mobile phones with a camera, and smart phones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can be text, URL or other data.

Wikipedia

How does it work?

Basically, it works like any other type of bar code that we are used to seeing on products. You know how they work. The bar codes are scanned at the register an that pulls up the price on the register, deducts it from the stores inventory and probably tracks a bunch of other info we don’t think about.

Well, think about this…iPhones and other smart phones have the ability to scan these QR Codes and translate them into the data that they are coded with.

Yahhh, So…?

So…imagine a restaurant that is running a special and they code their coupon, address, phone number and store hours into their QR Code and have it printed on their Signs out front. Now you with your handy iPhone are driving by and thinking I am really hungry. You stop at a light, notice the sign, and scan the QR Code into your iPhone (sort of like taking a picture, you aim and shoot.)  Now, you have the coupon, can read the specials and call in your take out order. Right there. Right Now. Without even getting out of the car.

Hmmm…your wheels starting to turn yet?   Check out this short video.

So why do I need on one the Internet?

Because it is SO EASY!  Because people carry their phones everywhere! Not to mention that more and more people are accessing the Internet on their smart phones every day!

So here is an example, your business is online. You print your QR Code on your business cards with all your contact info and website URL, maybe even your free report. This is called a “hardlink” or “physical world hyperlink.”  Then while you are waiting in a line going nowhere or at a seminar, you could give it to someone who could instantly access your business right there! “The possibilities are endless!

How can you get one?

There are several websites that will allow you to create your own QR Codes for printing or electronic use, just google QR Code Generator or use this one: http://qrcode.kaywa.com/ 

As for how to read a QR Code, many Android, Nokia, and Blackberry phones come with QR code readers pre-installed. If  you don’t have the reader pre-installed there are websites the have them available and can test your phone to see if it is compatible, just google QR Code Reader.