How to use QR codes

How to use QR codes

Ever noticed those little squares that look like cross-words gone wrong? You'll find them on posters, menus, flyers and a range of other vehicles of display advertising. These are QR codes and simply put, they provide an effortless link between the real and virtual worlds for marketers. Read on to find out what this means for your business.

Say that again?

QR (or quick response) codes are a bit like rocket-fuelled barcodes. They contain a mine of data that can be accessed through most smartphones. The process is simple enough for the user: hold your phone's viewfinder up to the code and watch as it transforms into a webpage, video or other form of dynamic presentation.

How does it work?

Who cares? All we know is that it's very clever and that some of the world's biggest brands are using them to layer extra content onto display marketing materials. It gives customers a chance to immerse themselves deeper in a story or find out more about a product or service.

Give me examples

• Big budget film posters now offer fans immediate access to trailers through QR codes. Hold your phone camera up and watch the teaser start automatically.

• Car companies use them to give customers a virtual 3D tour of their latest models. They combine this with details of how to book a test drive.

• In Korea, supermarket chain Tesco plastered images of products with QR codes over walls in the subway system, creating a virtual shop for commuters.

How could I use them?

There are a number of services that allow you to generate your own QR codes efficiently and affordably. How you use them is up to you; perhaps on leaflets, business cards, menus, stationary - the list is only as limited as your imagination.

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