A friend implemented QR codes at the university he works for, as an added marketing channel to help Open Day attendees learn more about the campus and location they were in. So I began looking into the meaning and use of QR codes at large. QR, by the way, stands for quick response.
What a QR code is, is an image that you scan with a mobile phone using a free reader. Once scanned your reader will reveal that the code stood for a particular website URL or other bit of information that you could find useful, inform you about something about what you're eating, help you make a purchase, orient you during transit, etc.
I'll be honest and say that, outside of casual discussion I've overheard from some supply chain specialists due to my work, I haven't really learned how useful these QR codes really can be to consumers. I am definitely keeping an eye out for these little guys now, and am now prepared to scan and see where that takes me.
There's a great blog post, QR Code Usage in Japan, explaining the various uses of QR codes. This is a technology that is very much ubiquitous in some Asian countries, mostly on consumer packaged goods labels, but also used as directionals and advertisements.
The blog post links to another great blog post by another author, on the Japan Marketing News blog, and the post is titled Japanese QR Codes Provide Marketers a Glimpse of the Future. Here, we learn that: "QR codes are widely seen on posters and billboards, providing anyone with a cell phone immediate access to everything from information on consumer prize campaigns to addresses and maps for retail outlets."
Have you seen QR codes in your area, and have you taken the time to scan them and learn more about them?
Once i started the QR project i've started noticing these codes everywhere. There are various types though, my electricity bill for example also has a QR code though not the same type i used on the university text.
ReplyDeleteThe Prof who is really into this stuff was telling me all about it but unfortunately i only understand about 1 word in 10 what he says.
After you started working on the QR project I also started noticing them everywhere XD store shelves, beauty magazines, direct mail, it's like you've set a precedent for everyone to follow now ;) I would love to hear your prof, sounds like he's really into it.
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