[ Team 16 ]

A QR code is a 2D matrix bar code readable by smart phones or other electronics with a camera and the appropriate reader application

Initially developed by Denso Wave and released in 1994

The QR stands for Quick Response

Initially used in manufacturing to mark different parts

Can contain any alphanumeric text and often feature URL's that direct users to sites where they can learn about an object or place

An important distinction between a regular bar code and a QR code:

Numeric only Max. 7,089 characters

Alphanumeric Max. 4,296 characters

Binary (8 bits) Max. 2,953 bytes

According to Denso Wave, a regular sized UPC code holds approximately 20 digits

On the other hand, the capacity of a QR code:

Significant use in Japan and South Korea

Applications of QR

A notable application of QR codes has been in the promotion aspect of marketing

QR codes can contain a large volume of information and can be placed conveniently in advertisements, taking up little space

This way, an advertisement does not have to be cluttered with text because details can be stored on a webpage that is accessible by scanning the QR code on the poster/advertisement

Promotion

Transactions

For customers, purchases can be made by scanning QR codes

Carrying credit/debit cards could become unnecessary if QR and smartphones become widespread for making transactions

Consumer Retail and Services

Retailers can use QR for promotion and to make transactions

The transaction aspect creates convenience for customers

The promotion aspect is very flexible because QR codes can be placed anywhere and are easy to generate

Consumer Retail and Services

We are unsure of whether QR will revolutionize retail and consumer services

The emergence of QR is more so a symptom of greater use of technology in business rather than a revelation on its own right