How to Use a QR Code to Boost Your Mobile Experience

Scan, Click, Go: QR codes are the unsung heroes of digital convenience that are attracting the world’s attention for their lightning-fast service. These seemingly simple 2D codes have become ubiquitous and can now be seen on product packaging, billboards, magazines, and business cards alike. But do you know how to use them?

Using a QR code is easy, super-efficient and provides instant access to information without the hassle of typing in a web address or searching for the source online. So don’t wait, give it a try next time you come across a QR code. Scan, Click, Go!

Understanding QR Codes

You have probably seen those sometimes black and white square-shaped codes on advertisements or products, but do you really know what they are and what they are used for? QR codes or Quick Response codes were first developed in 1994 by the Japanese company, Denso Wave. They are a two-dimensional bar code that contains information that can be quickly scanned and decoded by a QR code reader or scanner. They have become increasingly popular in recent years as an efficient way to provide access to information, websites, videos, and promotions.

Did you know? QR codes can store up to 7,089 characters, making them capable of storing more data than traditional bar codes.

How to Scan a QR Code

To scan a QR code, you will need a barcode scanner app installed on your smartphone or device. There are many free apps available on app stores that can scan and read QR codes; they use the device’s camera as a scanner.

Here are the general steps to scan a QR code:

1. Open the QR code reader app on your device
2. Point your device’s camera at the QR code
3. Wait for the scanner to read and decode the information stored in the QR code
4. The information stored will appear on your device’s screen

It’s that simple!

Pro Tip: When scanning a QR code, make sure you are in a well-lit area, and ensure that the QR code is clean and undamaged.

Benefits of Using QR Codes

QR codes offer a wide range of benefits to businesses, marketers, and consumers alike. Here are some of the most significant advantages:

• Efficient and convenient way to share information: QR codes can be scanned quickly, and the information stored can be accessed at any time, making it an ideal tool for sharing information such as contact details, web links, and product information.
• Cost-effective: Creating and printing QR codes is inexpensive, making it an affordable tool for businesses of all sizes.
• Trackable: QR codes can be tracked, enabling businesses to monitor the effectiveness of their promotions and campaigns, and make adjustments accordingly.

Did you know? In 2017, QR code usage in North America increased by 9.8%.

Creating Your Own QR Code

Creating your own QR code is simple and straightforward. You can easily generate a QR code using free online services such as QR Code Generator, QR Stuff, or Kaywa.

Here are the general steps to create your QR code:

1. Choose what content you want to encode in your QR code
2. Go to a QR code generator website and select the type of QR code you want to generate (link, text, email, phone number, etc.)
3. Enter the content you want to encode
4. Customize the QR code design (colors, shapes, logo, etc.)
5. Download or save the generated QR code

Ensure that you test the QR code before printing or sharing it with others.

Best Practices for QR Code Usage

Just like any other marketing tool, there are some best practices to keep in mind when using QR codes:

• Keep it simple: Limit the amount of information stored in the QR codes and ensure it is relevant to your audience.
• Ensure compatibility: Check whether the QR code reader app is compatible with different devices and operating systems.
• Provide instructions: Include clear and concise instructions on how to scan and decode the QR code.
• Test the QR code: Always test the QR code before printing or sharing it with others.
• Location, location, location: Place the QR code in a visible and easily accessible location.

Pro Tip: Track the performance of your QR codes and analyze their effectiveness using analytics tools.

Examples of QR Codes in Action

QR codes can be used in various applications, such as:

• Marketing: QR codes can be used to provide access to exclusive content, promotions, and discounts.
• Payment: Some businesses are leveraging QR codes for contactless payments, making the payment process faster and more accessible.
• Education: QR codes can be used in classrooms to provide access to digital resources, such as videos, quizzes, or interactive activities

QR Code Security Concerns

While QR codes offer numerous benefits, they can also pose some security risks. Users are often unaware of the information stored in QR codes, and cybercriminals can exploit this vulnerability to spread malware or phishing attacks.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from QR code security risks:

• Only scan QR codes from reliable and trusted sources
• Use a reputable and updated QR code scanner app
• Avoid scanning QR codes that appear suspicious and have unknown sources.
• Enable antivirus and malware protection software on your mobile device

Pro Tip: Use a QR code scanner with built-in security features, such as URL safety checks, to avoid malicious links.

Future of QR Codes

QR codes are here to stay, and many industries are finding new applications for them. The global QR code market is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 7.24% from 2020 to 2025, driven by the increasing adoption of contactless payments and the growing demand for secure and efficient methods of sharing information.

The use of QR codes will only continue to evolve, with innovations such as the development of bespoke QR codes, 3D QR codes, and the inclusion of augmented reality technology. With its numerous advantages, QR codes are a valuable marketing tool that will continue to be used by businesses and individuals for many years to come.