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What is all the fuss about Quick Response (QR codes), what are they and why are they so revolutionary?  On the face of it they seem dull.  A cross between a bar code and a 3d picture, they can be printed on numerous items – documents, posters, letters, people and clothing. When you point the camera of a smart phone at them that has QR reading software installed (Often pre installed on some smartphones but if not you can get a QR code scanning application for free at http://2d-code.co.uk/) you get taken directly to a website, sign up page, special offer, contact details etc. etc.  Some software, such as Crawford QR Express can generate QR codes which allow personalisation to the individual - allowing application forms to be part completed with data, e.g. insurance renewals.

To see a video on QR codes click on the play button below.

This is a really powerful marketing tool. For example, a QR code could be printed on your customers' statements for a new service or product that leads to a page where they simply have to agree to the proposal. This is a big improvement on form filling, which is especially difficult on a mobile phone keyboard.  For the ‘want it now’ generation it couldn’t be better.  What’s more, it is a great opportunity to make your marketing really focused and cost-effective. So should you care if you've never heard of QR codes?  If you're thinking that they are just for geeks, and will never make it into the mainstream, it's worth looking at their popularity in Japan, where they've been used since 2003. There, they are being used for large number of applications with remarkable succ ess.  e.g. Coca-Cola Japan QR Code (at vending machines) campaign.  

Even if the term Quick Response (QR) code is completely new to you now, it could soon be an everyday term, especially if you are interested in marketing.  Just as internet use has been phenomenal and affected all aspects of life, so QR codes are poised to do the same. 

In the UK, Eurostar are using QR codes on their online tickets and The Pet Shop Boys featured QR codes embedded in their “Integral” video. There are really practical applications - QR codes can provide information on goods where previously space was too limited (e.g. recommendations, details of ingredients, recipe suggestions, carbon footprint and  information on growers.) As such, it is an excellent real-time marketing tool.

To find out more about how Docuplus can help you with implementing this exciting technology, contact us.