QR Codes in Action.
A QR code or “Quick Response code” is a matrix barcode similar to UPC codes scanned by cash registers. These codes are designed to provide immediate access for any type of data the designer chooses. While some see QR codes as a marketing fad I think that they have a practical place in our lives. We crave instant information and as long as QR codes meet that need I think they will be around for while.
Here are a few QR placements in action:
1. Rock the vote. In the 2010 presidential election about 91 million American’s voted out of a total 217,342,419 eligible voters,
while around 122 million voted for the next American Idol. Until we can text in our votes for president, Rock the vote
volunteers have outfitted themselves with t-shirts featuring a QR code. People interested in voting simply scan the shirt and
are brought to a site where they can register, adding a little life to a process that can seem like drudgery to the gen-y crowd.
http://www.psfk.com/2012/03/t-shirt-voter-registration.html
2. The Home Depot has started using QR codes in a practical way. They have started placing QR codes on items that are
commonly purchased in large quantities by commercial customers. Maintenance technicians can download the app and
scan everything from shower heads to tubes of caulking. Once scanned these items are placed in their online shopping cart
taking the time out of managing inventory and ordering.
http://hdsupplysolutions.com/shop/home
3. QR codes just can be just for fun. There is a team at Facebook that is working to paint huge QR codes on the roofs of
buildings around the US. There is nothing practical about this, just good old nerdy fun.
http://www.adweek.com/adfreak/facebook-paints-giant-useless-qr-code- roof-headquarters-139202
4. A Portuguese artist Nuno Serrao is using QR codes to accompany pieces of art. People coming to view these works can
scan the code to access a soundscape that accompanies the piece, creating a unique experience for gallery visitors.
http://mashable.com/2012/02/25/qr-codes-art-music/
5. Soon Princeton Place Apartments in Worcester MA will be placing QR codes throughout corporate furnished apartments.
These codes once scanned will bring guests to a tutorial video for the item they scanned. You’ll find them on thermostats,
TV remote, appliance, anything that residents might need a little help using.
Where have you seen noteworthy QR code placement recently?