Have you seen this in magazines? Posters? On a business card? On a real estate listing? Do you think to yourself, “What is that thing? How does this relate to materials development?”
Well, I would like to introduce to you “Quick Response Code” or QR. It is a matrix barcode that can be read by barcode readers and camera phones. QR was created in Japan in 1994 and it is widely used in Japan. It was originally created to track car parts in during the manufacturing process. However, with the fast moving pace of technology, it is now being used as a marketing tool by the world. Once you scan this barcode with your smartphone, you will be able to be directed to a website, receive a text message with useful information, or get an email from an organization. This is HUGE development because it is expected that 1 in 2 Americans will have a smartphone by Christmas 2011. Using this code will get information to the public faster and in a vehicle that most people are currently using1.
How to use this on your smartphone?
1. On your smartphone, you will need to download a barcode-scanning app. Some examples for free apps (both iPhones and android phones) are2 :
- Red Laser
- Shop Savvy
- Food Scanner
- Barcode Scanner
- QR Reader
- Shopper
2. Once you have this app, all you have to do is scan the barcode and you will be able to get information. In our case, when you scan the barcode, you will be link directly to the TEAM Lab website.
You may be thinking , “oh cool, but how does this relate to me, my project, or materials development?” You’re just in luck because I have the perfect answer for you. You can create a QR code for free and start using this as your organizations new electronic business card. To illustrate how this can be used, I have included an example of one way TEAM Lab will be using QR.
This is the marketing postcard that we use to promote TEAM Lab services. While we have listed our TEAM Lab information (address, phone number, email, and website), we have also included our QR code. It is a faster way to get linked to our website and services. Once you scan the barcode with your smartphone app, your phone will instantly be connected to the TEAM Lab website.
Create a QR code for your organization for FREE by using this website: QR Code.
For more help or questions, feel free to call or email us.
Resources
1. http://gigaom.com/2010/03/26/1-in-2-americans-will-have-a-smartphone-by-christmas-2011/
2. http://flickandtea.com/?p=6048