Right now, the phrase “QR code” is being searched in Google more frequently than at any other time in history. But, is anyone familiar with their history?
They were invented in Japan in the 1990s to track automotive parts. According to search engine data, there was a surge in interest in 2011 and 2016. But they’ve never been more popular with the general public than they are right now. QR codes are incorporated into the company’s marketing strategy to increase engagement and ROI.
Explore this detailed guide based on QR Codes and their various uses in businesses.
What are QR Codes?
A quick response code, or QR code, is a readable, 2-D matrix barcode that stores significantly more data than a standard barcode. This includes
- Text
- Hyperlink
- Phone Number
- Contact
- Entry SMS Message
- Calendar entry
QR codes were created to be easily read by a digital device, avoiding the delays associated with single-direction barcode scans. Originally, they were designed to track manufacturing processes where barcodes could not store all of the necessary data.
QR codes have recently gained popularity and they can be found on anything—TV, billboards, tattoos, clothing labels, walls, you name it. Most smartphones now include a built-in QR reader that can be accessed via the camera feature. This enables businesses to reach their target customers wherever they are.
Types of QR Codes
There are various types of QR codes, each of which performs the same function but has a unique appearance. The most common ones used by small businesses are
This version has three patterns in the bottom-left, top-left, and top-right corners, as opposed to the original QR code, which has four patterns. There are two types in this version
Static QR code
The static QR code contains fixed information.
Dynamic QR code
This dynamic QR code contains no information but a redirection URL to the website with which you are attempting to communicate.
How do QR Codes Work?
You might be wondering how a small square with countless dots can hold so much information. The dots and patterns on a QR code are actually binary codes. When you scan a QR code with a QR code reader, the scanner interprets the binary code. Because the QR code is merely a data storage representation, it does not record personal data other than the location, time and operating system used to scan the data. Nowadays, the common camera app on a smartphone can scan the information, and smartphone users do not need to download a separate app from the app store. This makes it easy to use in marketing strategy to deliver marketing material, as well as day-to-day business operations like QR code menu options or contactless payments.
Reasons why Various Industries Incorporate QR Codes
QR technology can be used in a variety of ways by businesses to help them grow
Packaged Consumer Goods
The use of QR codes in business is limitless, and these codes can be used in a variety of ways.
Attaching a QR Code to your product is a huge plus if you work in the food and beverage manufacturing industry! It improves your customers’ understanding of your product. A QR code can include information such as:
- The brand’s origins
- The advantages of your brand
- The ingredients in your brand and their environmental impact
- Allergies or health concerns
Customers can directly access all of this information via their smartphone without breaking a sweat – and when they do, it increases the likelihood of them purchasing your products by 30%!
Print media
It’s time to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new! Give the print media industry more power and get rid of the lengthy information!
Make the paper interactive by including a QR code that takes them directly to a video or page that highlights the product’s information virtually. You can also use a QR code to entice readers to visit your business by providing incentives, free meals, or discounts that are only available by scanning the code!
The importance of QR codes in the business and print media industries aids in the digitalization of magazines, brochures, leaflets and other print materials.
E-commerce and online shopping
If you run a business that involves a lot of online transactions, adding a customized QR Code with a logo to your website is a must! It aids in the establishment and creation of brand identity awareness for your online store! Furthermore, you can track QR code facts and data about your customers using the Dynamic QR Code, including the location of your buyers, your target audience and especially which specific area you sell the most!
The better news is that it enables your customers to shop from the comfort of their own homes or from anywhere in the world. Most importantly, it aids in the prevention of fake products of your brand as well as driving traffic to your store!
Electronics industry
Get rid of paper manuals and instead provide information on how to install electronic devices, how to use them, or comprehensive and detailed instruction on how to repair the device if it becomes non-functional.
You can direct the URL of your QR Code to a page or a video of instructions that will guide and assist them in troubleshooting and repairing their electronic devices!
There’s no need to spend money on shopping any longer!
Restaurants, malls and shops
Add color to your business space and make it lively and fab by placing an eye-catching and customized QR Code with a logo at the main entrance! Zara, one of the most well-known clothing retailers, is also doing it! It will undoubtedly add a Wonderwall effect, causing your customers to take a second look.
Allow them to scan your QR Code with a logo to learn more about what your company has to offer! You can also add a QR Code to your restaurant’s menu and have customers scan their orders right away!
Business cards
Change your dull, boring, and traditional business card into a virtual business card using QR Codes! People can scan your business card QR code and instantly have all of your business card’s data on their smartphones!
Have your tiny card printed with a QR Code so that it can instantly transform into a marketing tool to market yourself to your next potential business partners and investors. This QR code solution and other QR code functions can help business consultants reach out to more customers.
Conclusion
QR codes have a wide range of applications, and businesses are no exception to those who can benefit from their ease of use. Many customers are willing to pay more for a service from a company that provides them with an exceptional experience. Convenience is an important part of that experience, so businesses should do everything they can to provide a convenient customer journey.
