What are QR codes?

QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned with a smartphone or tablet. They were invented in Japan in the 1990s by the Denso Wave company to track auto parts during production. Today, they are used around the world for a variety of purposes.

How do QR codes work?

QR codes consist of black and white squares arranged in a specific pattern. These patterns can store different types of data, such as:

• Links to websites
• Contact information
• Text messages
• Wi-Fi login details
• Geographical locations

How to use QR codes?

To scan a QR code, you need a smartphone with a camera; as of 2018, phones have a built-in function to automatically read QR codes. Here are simple instructions:

1. Start the camera - Open the camera app on your smartphone.
2. Direct the camera - Point the camera at the QR code, making sure the code is in the center of the frame.
3. Scan code - The phone will automatically recognize the QR code and display a notification with a link or other information.
4. Click notification - To open the link or see the information, just click on the notification.

Applications of QR codes

QR codes are widely used in various areas of life:

• Advertising: Direct customers to a website, social media profile or special offer.
• Purchasing: Sharing product details, reviews or user manuals.
• Restaurants: Menu available online, order food via QR code on table.
• Transportation: E-tickets for trains, buses, planes.
• Education: Access to educational materials, interactive quizzes or class schedules.
• Payments: Fast and secure wire transfers and mobile app payments.

QR codes for business

Why use QR codes in business? QR codes are an effective tool that can significantly improve customer communication and increase engagement. Here are some benefits for business:

1. Easy access to information: QR codes allow customers to quickly access information without having to type in URLs or search for data.
2. Increased interactivity: Adding QR codes to ads, posters or flyers allows you to engage customers interactively.
3. Tracking and Analysis: The ability to track how many times a code has been scanned allows for evaluation of the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
4. Costs: Creating and printing QR codes is cheap and easy, and they do not require a lot of money to implement.
5. Hygiene: In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless interactions have become crucial. QR codes eliminate the need to touch common surfaces such as menus and tickets.

How do companies use QR codes?

• Advertising: Companies place QR codes on posters, banners or in magazines to direct customers to promotional sites.
• Price lists and catalogs: QR codes on products allow customers to quickly access detailed information and prices.
• Business cards: Adding a QR code to your business card can include contact information, a link to your company website or LinkedIn profile.
• Loyalty programs: Stores can use QR codes to register for loyalty programs and collect points.
• Events and conferences: Tickets with QR codes facilitate the registration and verification process for participants.

QR codes are becoming an integral part of the marketing and operational strategies of modern companies. Thanks to their versatility and ease of use, they are becoming a powerful tool in the hands of entrepreneurs, enabling modern and effective ways of communication and promotion.

QRs are a simple but extremely effective way to connect the physical and digital worlds. Their versatility makes them applicable in many areas of daily life and business. Thanks to their easy and intuitive operation, they can significantly simplify users' lives and bring tangible benefits to businesses.