Let’s start from the beginning – QR stands for ‘Quick Response’. You may have seen them on product packaging, billboards, in restaurants instead of menus, and on business cards. As the name suggests, this type of barcode is a form of quick, contactless technology that bridges the gap between physical and digital experiences.

QR codes can store a large amount of data, allowing a user to access information instantly through the camera on their smartphone. The pandemic raised the need for contactless activities, and with the ever-growing ease of internet access, QR Codes have become immensely popular.

Furthermore, businesses today are looking for innovative ways to use advanced technologies to engage more easily with their audiences. QR codes are used in every industry for various uses.

Similarly, QR Codes have become common in consumer advertising and should be a focus in all advertising strategies. The importance of this capability is the increase in conversion rates as people can access a brand more efficiently, make a purchase, or sign up effortlessly. In addition, QR Codes can provide additional information to the customer without having to create other targeted sales pitches, which may lose the viewer’s interest.

QR Codes are also used in the following ways:

  • QR code payment: such as the popular Snap Scan code or Zapper code.
  • Augmented reality: for bringing new information on brands to life in a more innovative way at the point of purchase.
  • Displaying multimedia content: by direct users to specific multimedia content (such as video, audio, images, documents, etc.) which are otherwise not accessible on the packaging of a product, for instance.
  • Virtual stores: such as a gallery of product information which uses QR Codes to make sales and arrange delivery to the customer more effectively.
  • CV’s: career seekers are adding a QR code to their CV for the prospective employer to scan to view their online portfolio or LinkedIn profile.

Equally important, QR Codes are affordable and do not require specified handheld scanners. Most smartphones have this scanning functionality already built into them, so there is no need for third-party apps.

To conclude, QR Codes are here to stay and have multiple ways of transforming how we access information and technology. As a result, we can offer customers more interactive experiences, which will begin to revolutionise the way they engage with your product or service.