QR Code for this blog
What is a QR code?
According to Wikipedia:
A QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response code) is a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code) designed to be read by smartphones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded may be text, a URL, or other data.
Created by Toyota subsidiary Denso Wave in 1994, the QR code is one of the most popular types of two-dimensional barcodes. The QR code was designed to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.
What Are QR Codes Used For?
QR codes were originally designed for tracking parts in car manufacturing, where it is important to be able to read the information rapidly during the assembly process. Now, however, they are becoming ubiquitous, and are especially geared toward use with smartphone applications. QR codes appear in magazines, on business cards, on buses, on signs – almost anything that can convey information.
The major benefit of a QR code over a conventional barcode is the ability to hold much more information. The normal barcode is limited to 20 numerical digits, but a two-dimensional QR code can hold thousands of alphanumeric characters. Combined with their user-friendliness, this makes QR codes useful for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
How Do You Read QR codes?
Many smartphones with cameras have the software already installed. If yours does not, it’s easy to find an app that you can download and use. You don’t need any more equipment than a smartphone with a camera.
If you have a smartphone equipped to read QR codes, try this trick next time you are shopping. Pick an item you might be interested in and scan the QR code from it into your smartphone. You should be able to read the information stored in the QR code right there on your phone!
It’s worth mentioning here that there are other codes that are proprietary, such as Microsoft Tags, but QR codes are open source and can be scanned and used with a variety of apps, giving much more flexibility than the closed-end solutions.
What is the Point?
Good question! In fact, there are plenty of ways you can use QR codes to promote your business. Watch out for my next post, when I’ll list some of the best ways to benefit from this new technology.
Meanwhile, have fun creating free QR codes at http://qrcode.kaywa.com.
Very interesting post Alan. I’ve seen several examples of how to use QR codes already so I’m looking forward to reading your follow up article on this topic!
marquita herald recently posted..Do You Suffer From the Need to Please?
You probably know more about it than me, Marquita! Are you using QR codes yet?
Hey Alan,
I’ve been seeing more of these QR codes around. I was kind of wondering what exactly they were for.
Technology has come a long way and it’s amazing to see. Thanks for the free link, I’ll be checking that out and also looking forward to your next blog post.
-Kyle Quinlan
Kyle Quinlan recently posted..Getting a College Education After High School vs. Educating Yourself After High School
Thanks, Kyle. Let me know how you get on.
Alan
Alan recently posted..Google Plus and SEO
So that’s what they’re used for. I always wondered what they were for and could never figure it out. Plus I didn’t know what they were called and even if I did, I’d probably be too lazy to even look it up. Thanks for the info. Learned something new today!
Barbara recently posted..Sectional Slipcovers
Pleased to be of help, Barbara. I can’t believe they’ve been around since 1994. Still early days here in the US though.
Alan,
I think there is a whole world awaiting me out there just as soon as I get through my current phone contract. Smart phone here I come.
RICK
Rick Lelchuk recently posted..Happiness Is The Key
I have a problem with smartphones: I believe they are smarter than me
Also, they’re expensive beasts!
Alan
Alan recently posted..Google Plus and SEO
Alan,
I think there is a whole world awaiting me out there just as soon as I get through my current phone contract. Smart phone here I come.
RICK
Alan,
I think there is a whole world awaiting me out there just as soon as I get through my current phone contract. Smart phone here I come.
RICK
Hi Alan
thank for this info it ia amazing how thing just move forwart for the better .
i need toget his info on this moment cos me and steve are buzy to create a App for phone
for my game.
I will skype you and talk to you about it
may be you can help out .
Regards
Theuns
Theuns recently posted..Gratitude Expose: Why Gratitude Expose?
I’ll do my best, Theuns! I’m still learning about these things, but I may be able to help you get set up.
Thanks for your comments.
Alan
Alan recently posted..Google Plus and SEO
Pingback: QR Codes - How You Can Use Them | Alan's Networking Blog
Alan
So glad I stopped by. I’ve always wondered what those codes were and what they did. I also read the follow up. I may have to try the code on my business card. There’s never enough room on my card for everything.
Have a Great Day
Chester
Chester Delameter recently posted..But I never stole anything!!
I’m pleased that it helped, Chester. Business cards do get crowded, especially if you have more than one business!
Thanks
Alan