A QR Code is a two dimensional bar code created by the Japanese corporation Denso Wave in 1994. The QR stands for Quick Response, meaning that the symbol can be decoded at high speed. They are a huge improvement over barcodes.

While conventional bar codes are capable of storing a maximum of approximately 20 digits, it is capable of handling several dozen to several hundred times more information.

It is capable of handling all types of data, such as numeric and alphabetic characters as well as Asian language symbols. Up to 7,089 characters can be encoded in one symbol.

Since QR Code carries information both horizontally and vertically, and capable of encoding the same amount of data in approximately one tenth the space of a traditional bar code.

It is capable of 360 degree (omni directional), high speed reading.

Many modern cell phones can scan QR codes.

Storing addresses and URLs could be placed anywhere, e.g., in magazines, on signs, buses, business cards or just about any object that users might need information about.

Anyone with a cell phone and the proper software (Software is easily obtainable on the Web for free) can scan the image of the QR Code which prompts the phone's browser to launch and redirect to the programmed URL.

This fairly new act of linking from physical world objects is known as a hard link or physical world hyperlinks. So, for example, if a viewer sees an ad for jeans in a magazine that incl
udes a code, the viewer can scan it into their mobile phone through the camera function and connect to the jean website to read more about them or to purchase them.

Or, if a person is eating a hamburger at a fast food place that has a wrapper with it, the scanned code might take them to a website that provides nutritional information or a coupon for a dessert.

Users can also generate and print their own for others to scan and use by visiting one of several free Code generating sites.

The Value of QR Codes for Online Retailers

Although the use is still in its infancy (except in Japan where they are very common), you will certainly get style and tech savvy points for incorporating the codes into your site. Beyond these soft advantages, QR codes can help connect your products to your public. For example:

You can include a it with every product on your web site containing all the product details, the number to call and the URL link to the page so visitors to your site can show friends on their cell phone.

You can create it with all of your contact information so that your business can be easily added to a cell phone contacts list.

Of course, if you add it to your website, Google will detect that you have made changes and discover the QR codes. While Google does not currently offer the ability to decode codes, that is a function that is probably in the pipeline. For now you get fresh content points.

Eventually, It will be another way to promote your products, make sure you are prepared for the next revolution in connecting with your customers.