Quick Response codes are quite common throughout Japan and many mobile phones have the capability to read them [such as Nokia's E71 business phone]. Why should we be using them and where?
Ever seen one of those strange techie looking squares in the corner of a billboard, on the back of a Pepsi bottle or other product? Well, chances are you’ve been staring at a Quick Response Code [or QR-Code for short]. They are designed to allow people to receive data such as a http:// address, an SMS or just plain text by taking a photograph or pointing the phone at the code. As mentioned, they are most common in Japan but are creeping into use in the UK market.
Whilst these codes may be seen by many as a gimmick with limited usage, I have personally seen them on food products, mobile phone batteries, posters and brochures – so there are people and businesses out there putting their faith in this tool directly aimed at the mobile and media hungry generation. They were originally developed for the vehicle industry to track parts and processes – find out more about them by visiting the Wikipedia overview of QR-Codes.
Advantages
- Reader can collect information alot quicker than a user can type
- Accurate transfer of contact, URL and other information
- Good for time limited contact – eg person walking past a billboard or poster
- Novelty factor and curiousity for the mobile generation
- Limited use and therefore if appropriate a business could be seen to be innovatively using this technology*
Disadvantages
- Mobile reader required. This is not available on all mobile phones or other devices. Nokia models with pre-installed QR-Code Reader software include Nokia N82, N93, N93i, N95, N95 8GB, E66, E71, E90 or 6220 Classic (APAC variants)
- Viewer needs to be fairly accurate and stationery to read the code – not easy for someone on the move or in a rush.
- Limited use in Western markets*
Create your own
To have a go at creating your own QR-Code go to http://qrcode.kaywa.com. For Nokia compatibility and software links go to http://mobilecodes.nokia.com/scan.htm. Other Nokia phones and alternative brands may not be compatible with this software – please check this before you download. Here’s one I made earlier:
Leave Your Response