QR stands for “quick response” so QR codes are “quick response codes.”
You’re seeing them more and more out in the world — those square barcode-like boxes on menus, pages, boxes, posters, even business cards.
How Do QR Codes Work?
QR code technology was developed in 1994, but began being used in marketing more recently, with a significant uptick during the Covid pandemic. Since then, their usefulness and ease has made them a very popular tool for people and companies seeking ways to engage with prospects, existing customers, clients, patients, etc.
QR codes are images composed of digital data that can be printed or placed on digital pages/screens. They are designed to be scannable, triggering an action by the scanning device. (Most commonly the scanning device is a smartphone with a built-in or downloaded app created for that purpose.) Such triggered actions include:
- Transporting you to a web page, landing page or social media page;
- Sending a text message (SMS);
- Dialing a phone number;
- Downloading an app;
- Transporting you to Google Maps for directions to a location;
- Downloading a menu or coupon or special offer;
- Recommending a product.
New uses for QR codes are created on an ongoing basis.
QR codes are similar to barcodes but while barcodes store data horizontally, QR codes display and store data both vertically and horizontally. In both cases data is intentionally redundant so that if some part of the code becomes unreadable the relevant information can be extracted from what’s left.
The rows and columns of QR codes are used for different purposes. On the top-left, top-right and bottom-left you will see a square – these are to orient the scanner.
The meat of the QR code is the series of dark and white spaces representing numbers and letters. White-space surrounds the code to make clear to the scanner where the code actually starts. Scanners convert the patterns to letters and numbers representing the url (or text or images). Most commonly the spaces are square in shape, in black and white. But they don’t have to be. QR codes can use color and other shapes.
QR codes can include space for a logo in the center, offering a branding opportunity.
Static or Dynamic QR code
Depending on where your QR code is generated, you may choose a static or dynamic code. (More in future blogposts.) A static code is not modifiable whereas a dynamic code can be changed. This means you can print or post online a QR code that triggers a particular action for a period of time, then change the action to be triggered. For example, during a sale the QR code could trigger a coupon download; after the sale it could take people to a landing page.
More information about QR Codes and Prime Business coming soon!
