Easy Access to Information Anytime Anywhere - QR-Codes and their benefits

Automation Technology12 mins read•Wed, Feb 1, 2023

A QR-Code scanning app on a phone screen

If you've been wondering what those black and white squares are that people keep scanning with their phones, they're called QR codes. QR stands for Quick Response. They were originally used by the automotive industry to track inventory, but now they can be used for a variety of purposes including marketing, events, and more.

There are many benefits of using QR codes, including the ability to track who is scanning your code, the rich information they provide, and the ease of use. Using QR codes is a great option if you're looking for a way to make your business stand out. Keep reading to learn more about QR codes and how you can use them in your business.

What are QR Codes

QR (Quick Response) Codes have become a popular way to access and share information. QR Codes are 2D barcodes that can store thousands of characters of data in a single, pixelated square. This makes them incredibly versatile and efficient, allowing users to easily store URLs, product details, contact information, or even coupon codes in one simple code which can then be quickly scanned with a QR scanner.

One unique advantage of QR Codes is that they allow for more meaningful interactions between customers and businesses when combined with a scanner. Scanners provide businesses with the ability to quickly gather customer feedback or survey data and offer ways for companies to advertise their products via print media by integrating code options with promotional materials. Ultimately, QR Codes provide users with an intuitive way to track data and gain access to rich media sources – all while being user-friendly and cost-effective!

QR-Code history

QR-Codes have a relatively long history dating back to 1994 when they first appeared in a Toyota advertisement in Japan. The inventor of the QR-Code is Denso Wave, a Japanese subsidiary of Denso Corporation. The goal was to create an efficient way for workers in their factories to quickly scan items and track inventory. Since then, the technology has evolved from a static product code to a comprehensive tool for data collection and distribution. QR Codes became

Today QR-Codes can contain an extensive range of information, from basic contact info or website links to complex binary data. Their usage today includes businesses that use them for promotional purposes; logistics companies that utilize them for tracking; and schools and organizations that employ them as a security measure.

When did QR codes become popular?

QR-Code scanners have also become increasingly popular in the early 2000s with the advent of mobile devices, allowing users to easily scan codes on any type of printed material, providing access to rich data stored within. Furthermore, clever programming allows users to customize their QR-Codes with features such as expiration dates or dynamic content - making them more reliable and appealing than ever before.

QR-Code Patent

In the year 2000, Denso Wave patented its Quick Response (QR) code technology. This patent covers the software and hardware used in both encoding and decoding QR codes. In addition, it also covers the encoding method of data that can be stored in a QR code as well as the structure of the code itself, however, they do not enforce their rights for this technology. This makes it possible for anyone to freely create, share, and use these codes.

QR-Code formats

QR-Codes come in a variety of formats depending on the type of data they store.

Text – these codes contain basic text and are typically used to store website links, contact information, or very short messages.
URL – these codes link users directly to a specific web page, making them perfect for directing customers to product pages or promotional campaigns.
Image – these codes contain a compressed version of an image file, allowing users to easily share photos or other visual content with friends and colleagues.
Audio – these codes store audio files such as music tracks or sound effects and can be used to provide customers with exclusive access to multimedia content.
Geo-location – these codes link directly to geographical locations, making them an ideal way to share directions with customers or visitors.
Calendar Event – these codes store event details such as date and time, allowing users to easily add calendar events to their devices.

A QR-Code being scanned from a phone in a shop

Popular Use-Cases

QR-Codes are increasingly popular as a way to quickly connect customers with businesses or digital content. Here are some of the most common use cases for QR-Codes:

vCards – these codes store contact information such as names, numbers, and email addresses.
Website Links – these codes can link customers directly to a website, providing them with easy access.
Coupon Codes – businesses often use QR-Codes to store promotional codes, allowing customers to quickly redeem discounts or special offers.
Product Details – these codes can provide customers with detailed product information such as sizes, materials, or prices.
Wi-Fi – these codes contain connection details for public or private Wi-Fi networks, simplifying the process of connecting to a network.
Documents – these codes store documents such as PDFs (PDF QR Code) or Word files, allowing customers to quickly access data.
Barcodes – these codes contain product details such as a price tag, making them ideal for fast-paced retail environments.
Social Media Links – these codes store social media pages, such as Twitter profiles or Facebook pages, making it easy for users to quickly access content.
Payments – these codes link directly to payment systems and are commonly used for contactless payments or donations.
Downloads – these codes link to digital files, providing customers with access to downloadable content.

QR-Codes can be used in a variety of settings, from marketing campaigns to logistics management. Businesses are increasingly relying on QR-Codes to quickly and easily transfer data, track products, and provide customers with a more interactive experience. Furthermore, their ability to store large amounts of data in one simple code makes them extremely versatile - allowing users to access detailed information from any type of printed material with ease.

QR-Code tracking

QR-Code tracking is the process of tracking a QR code’s performance over time. By analyzing the scan data collected from code readers, businesses can gain valuable insights into how their codes are being used and who is using them. This information can help businesses better understand their customers and make more informed decisions about their marketing campaigns. It can also be used to identify areas where codes can be improved or optimized.

QR-Code tracking is a great way for businesses to measure their success and maximize their return on investment from QR-code campaigns. It provides valuable data that can be used to improve the effectiveness of marketing efforts and optimize customer engagement

QR codes classification

QR-code classification is the process of categorizing QR codes based on their functionalities. This helps businesses and organizations to better understand their usage and make sure that they are using the right type in their particular application. There are many types of QR Codes, each with its unique features and use cases, including:

Model 1: QR Code Model 1 is the most commonly used type of QR code. By using this type of code, businesses can store up to 4296 characters in one code, making it an ideal way to encode and store data. This model works by displaying the encoded information in a grid-like pattern with square modules arranged into rows and columns.
Model 2: QR Code Model 2 is a higher-density code that can store up to 7,089 characters in one code. It works by encoding the same data as Model 1 but in a more compact grid pattern with smaller modules arranged into more rows and columns. This makes the code read faster and more reliably than its predecessor.
Micro QR Code: Micro QR codes are designed to be more compact than other types of QR codes. This type is ideal for applications where space is limited, as the code can contain up to 104 characters while taking up less area than a standard code.
IQR Code: The IQR Code (“intelligent Quick Response Code”) is a new type of QR Code that allows for more efficient data storage and retrieval. It’s capable of storing up to 1,920 characters in one code and can be read by any standard QR Code scanner. This type of code is perfect for applications where speed and efficiency are important factors, such as ticketing services or product tracking.
SQRC Code: SQRC (“Secure Quick Response Code”) codes are designed for applications where security is a priority. By using this code, businesses can encrypt their data to ensure it remains secure from unauthorized access or manipulation. This type of code contains up to 3,904 characters and can only be read by dedicated QR Code readers.
FrameQR: FrameQR (“Flexible Quick Response Code”) codes are designed to be extremely versatile and customizable. This type of code allows users to customize the shape, size, and orientation of the code while still being able to store up to 4296 characters in one code.
HCC2D: HCC2D (“High Capacity Color 2-dimensional”) codes are designed to provide more data storage capacity than other types of codes. This type of code can contain up to 7,168 characters in one code and can be read by any standard QR Code reader. It is perfect for applications such as product tracking and inventory management where large amounts of data need to be quickly and accurately stored.

Dynamic and Static QR-Codes

In addition to the different types of QR Code classification, there are also two main types of QR codes available – dynamic and static. Static QR codes contain pre-defined data that cannot be changed or updated, while dynamic codes can be updated with new information each time they are scanned. When a user scans a static QR code, the code will send the same data each time. Dynamic QR codes, on the other hand, can store different information over some time and can be used to add new content or promotions without having to reprint the code.

Dynamic codes are ideal for applications where businesses want to provide more engaging experiences for their customers. For example, a restaurant could use a dynamic code to offer discounts or promotions that will change over time. On the other hand, static codes are better suited for applications that require more reliable data storage and retrieval, such as product tracking and inventory management.

How to create QR-Codes

Creating a QR code is simple and can be done with a variety of QR Code generator software libraries and tools, from online generators to specialized software. A single QR code can be generated in a matter of milliseconds. Once the code has been created, it can then be printed out or saved in a format such as PNG or PDF for use on websites or other media.

When creating a QR code, businesses should consider the type of code they need, the type of data they want to store, and the applications where it will be used. Depending on these factors, different types of codes may be more suitable than others. Additionally, businesses should ensure that their QR code meets industry standards for quality and readability so that customers can scan it successfully.

QR-Codes benefits in the business world

QR-Codes offer many benefits to businesses, both large and small. The main benefit of using QR codes is the ability to quickly capture data and store it securely in a compact package. This makes it easier for businesses to track products through their supply chain, monitor customer behavior, and provide engaging experiences for customers. Additionally, they can save businesses time and money by eliminating the need for manual data entry or lengthy checkout processes. Finally, QR codes allow businesses to provide customers with a contactless payment option that is fast, secure, and convenient.

QR-Code application in the delivery industry

The application of QR Codes in the delivery industry is revolutionizing the way businesses operate and customers interact with them. Quick Response (QR) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that contain rich information that, when scanned, tell a device (e.g. mobile phone) to take action such as providing a link to access more data or directly transferring data from one device to another. This can be used to easily track packages and shipments within the industry, offering customers enhanced visibility into where their package is at all times. The types of QR Code scanners vary, including smartphone apps or handheld dedicated devices that provide even higher accuracy tracking and larger amounts of stored data. Not only are they successful in streamlined tracking capabilities, but they can also reduce print media costs due to their portable nature since they don't require quick prints or paper labels for shipping tasks. QR Codes provide an efficient solution backed by scalability and reliability that suits today's on-demand delivery climate perfectly.

Summary

QR Codes have been in use for almost two decades now and their popularity has only grown in recent years. Thanks to the widespread adoption of smartphones equipped with built-in cameras, QR Codes are now easier than ever to scan and use. There are many different kinds of QR Codes, each with its own set of features and benefits. Depending on your needs, you can choose from static or dynamic QR codes, trackable or untrackable codes, and programmable or non-programmable codes.

The potential applications of QR Codes are nearly limitless, but they are particularly well-suited for use in the delivery industry. Arka Industrial Automation's parcel lockers make use of QR Codes to provide a convenient and secure way for customers to receive their deliveries through parcel lockers.

If you're looking for a way to streamline your delivery operations, give us a call today. We can help you get set up with a customized parcel locker solution that's tailored to your exact needs. With Arka Industrial Automation, you can rest assured knowing that your customers are receiving the best possible service.