What is a QR Code and how does it work?

The QR code is perhaps one of the most effective marketing tools given that it is low cost (in most cases it’s free); customizable and therefore on-brand, literally; and instant, bringing people exactly where you want them to go. If you don’t know what a QR code is or how it works, you absolutely need to (don’t worry I’ve got you covered; check out this 38-second video to learn how).

If you’re a business you should be using this starting right now; and if you’re a consumer, you need to know what it is so you know what to do when you see one. They are everywhere and growing exponentially with the increase in the eCommerce space and the globalization of brands.

In my first article I talked about how they are making a comeback, and in this article, you will learn what a QR Code is and how it works. So, become a guru and impress your co-workers in under 5 minutes.

WHAT?
A QR Code, or “quick response” code, is a machine-readable 2D barcode. It contains data for a location (coordinates), a piece of content (video, image, audio, document) or a tracker that points to a website or application.

Originally QR Codes consisted of black squares on a white background, but now you can customize the shape of your codes, change colors, and add logos or images.

HOW?
Once created it can be scanned with the use of a camera on a smartphone: 1-click to open the camera, scan, and then another click on the link pop-up and you’ve arrived at your destination. You can see below how times have changed and engaging with a QR Code is significantly easier and faster.

Before
See code > Decide on which app to use to scan (QR Reader, Google Goggles, etc.) > Unlock phone > Close current app > Find QR reader app > Open app > Point at QR code > Hit scan > Get redirected (link, text, image, etc.)

Now
See code > Quick-open camera app > Point at QR code > Get link notification > Tap to connect and get redirected (link, text, image, etc.)

Get Started and Create Your Own QR Code
Now that you know what they are and how they work you can easily create your own custom QR code for free with a tool like QRC Creator.

QR Codes make content consumption incredibly simple. Share information instantly and conveniently bring users directly where you want them to be.

About the Author
Martin Barrow is the Founder of mobUX (pronounced mo-bux or mobile User Experiences) — a MarTech startup working on interactive mobile experiences that tell stories, collect data, and convert buyers. You can connect with him on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, to talk about anything marketing, mobile, or QR code specific (he’ll let skiing and scuba diving topics slide as well).

Do you want to create amazing mobile experiences for your customers? Check out mobUX!