QR Codes are becoming rather commonplace. Let’s discuss what they are and why you might want to use them.
QR codes are form of a barcode. The main difference between a ‘normal’ barcode and a QR code is that a QR code is two dimensional – which means it can hold a lot more data. QR is short for Quick Response. Their ability to hold more information and their ease of use makes them practical for small businesses.
The beauty of QR codes is that they can be read by smartphones. Apps that read QR codes are readily available. Digital information such as a website address can be stored in a QR code, read by a smartphone and the smartphone user is immediately taken to a website.
Two things are needed to start using QR codes: 1) QR code generator, and 2) QR Code reader.
QR Code Generator
Google ‘QR Code generator’ and you’ll get a number of results. Most of them are free. Some generators allow for more design and color in the QR code than others. A couple of recommend sites are Kaywa and Keremerkan. At each site you can choose whether you want a website address (URI), an email, a text message, or other options in your QR code. You enter the desired information, click a button, and walla, there’s your QR code! You can download it and place it wherever you’d like.
QR Code Reader
Google ‘QR code readers’ and you’ll have a number of options for apps that read QR codes. Kaywa has its own reader, but there are others available. Mobile-Barcodes has a list of the ‘best QR-Code reading software available’. QR code readers are available for most smartphones.
In a future posting, we’ll discuss the many different ways to use QR codes for marketing your business. In the meantime, go create your own QR code!