How they work:
A QR code is basically made up of black ‘modules’ or ‘cells’ arranged in a square pattern against a white background. Three distinctive squares at the corner of the code are located by a programmed processor, which then uses a fourth smaller square at the remaining corner to align and normalise the image. Then the smaller dots which make up the centre of the code are converted into a set of binary numbers including an error-checking code to ensure validity. Today the arrival of smartphone’s of course has taken the QR code from its industrial history to one of the ‘coolest’ forms with which a company can advertise and market themselves. The ability of a QR code to contain a large amount of information – such as a the URL for a current promotion on a brand’s website, their location on Google Maps, or to automatically open an email enquiry form to them, amongst myriad other applications – has revolutionised their role in the online marketing realm.
Other modern applications include mobile couponing, which captures the customer’s information and entitles them to a discount or special offer. They are even used by the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) in the Philippines on their security clearances, and today appear printed in magazines, business cards and even on buildings and buses. Another attractive feature of QR codes is the fact that they can be colourful and creative. Have a look at some of these:
This QR code was designed by Japan Neko for a British Red Cross Campaign for disaster relief in Japan.
Many US companies print T-shirts and other clothing which includes a link to the individual’s friend request page on Facebook.
This ‘designer’ QR code was created for Louis Vitton by Takeshi Murakami.
Because QR Codes will still read correctly even when 30% of the code is damaged or missing, tech-savvy individuals can even edit a portion in PhotoShop to create their own, completely unique code.
U.K. Ad Agency “Made by Stupid” designed this creative advert which includes a code linking you directly to the “Angry Birds” game application download page.
So – keen to try it out yourself yet? Well good news – generating a QR code is quick, simple, and best of all, completely free. Our favourite here at SA Barcodes is featured below. Simply pop in the URL you wish to create a code for and in seconds you will have your image!
1. www.BeQRious.com
Features linking to:
- Web URL
- Phonecall
- Text
- vCard
- SMS
- YouTube video
- Facebook Page
- Google Maps
- Graphic
- Bonus features: Option to create your QR Code in the colour of your choice, as well as tracking
Other good sites include www.Delivr.com and www.QRStuff.com which are also packed with features.
If you have any questions for us please don’t hesitate to let us know! Send an email to info@sabarcodes.co.za