Tech Corner Post: More about QR Codes

Written by Allison Lefevre

What are QR Codes?

     QR codes, or quick response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that store information and can be read by a QR reader app on smartphones. These barcodes can store all sorts of information like websites, coupons and addresses. Originally, these barcodes were used to track automobile parts, but have since grown in popularity and have been used for much more. You will find QR codes in magazines, newspapers, advertisements, and even on TV or websites. Some people are even using them on their business cards or resumés.  

QR codes differ from regular barcodes. Regular barcodes stores data on a horizontal plane, while a QR barcode encodes data horizontally and vertically in a box like shape of tiny squares. Also, barcodes are used to identify items and products and can only be read from certain angles. QR codes can be read from any angle by the appropriate scanner reader.

For those of you wondering how to make a QR code, it is simple. There are QR code generators all over the internet that will create a code specifically for the information you want the code to take you to. For example, you can take a URL, place it in the specified area, click a create button, and then a barcode will pop up for you to then save and use to your discrepancy.

As I mentioned before, these codes can be used in a simple way by taking you to a business’s website, or you can use QR codes as an advanced promotional effort. Google has been using QR codes to promote other businesses along with itself with the Google Places business directory. This directory includes reviews, contact information, and sometimes coupons. New York City’s Central Park ran a PR campaign, The World Park, to gain younger visitors to the park by placing QR codes around the park. These codes contained basic information about the different spots in the park, videos, and fun facts. They did this to reach a more technology-based community and to make a more engaging park experience for younger visitors. These examples demonstrate some great ideas on how to use this technology in everyday life. I think we will continue to see more of these now and in the future.