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Have you ever seen a weird-looking graphic that somewhat looks like a stamp but has no distinct image on soda bottles, fast-food wrappers, magazines and even giant billboards like that of Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein? It may also be mistaken as a bar code at first look but with closer inspection you'd actually see it to be pixelated without a define figure or image within. This odd digital stamp is referred to as a QR code.

QR codes originated from Japan and are widely used there. Currently Europe and America is catching up on this latest technology. QR codes have a lot of promising potentials as they are highly engaging. These are often found printed on tags, labels, magazines, mugs, packages, t-shirts and other printable material for marketing and advertising. You can even scan a QR code straight from the monitor! These codes are scanned using a smart phone via a downloadable QR scanner or reader. The moment the code is scanned the customer is instantly taken to the website linked to the code. It is a new take on direct advertising that is taking the world by storm.

Seeing a number of Japanese taking out their smart phones scanning QR codes simultaneously is a normal sight. These special codes give customers direct access to online shops, online catalogues, product information and other resources making it easier for them to expound their purchasing power. There are so many ways on how these codes can be used for different industries and for so many reasons other than trade.

Here are some future uses of QR codes:

• Updated schedule and bulletin

A customer can simply scan a code to know when the next train, plane or bus is arriving. An individual may easily know when the latest happenings and where they will be simply by scanning. The local government may provide a sticker or ref magnet providing the same code for every home to grant instant access to local news, weather reports, warnings and etc.

• A Bridge Between Print and Digital Portfolin

Parents may easily access their child's grades, activities and projects with the use of an assigned QR code. A model or an artist may easily provide an engaging digital portfolio with photos and videos.

• Product Knowledge

To know the complete ingredients and contraindication of drugs or food, the consumer may scan the code to learn more product information that do not fit in the printed label. Manufacturers may link a video demonstrating how their products are made to educate clients.

• Invites and Campaign

With just a single scan, philanthropists may be taken directly to the site they can donate to. Wedding guests may be directed directly to the wedding registry's site or to a dedicated site where all photos and wedding info may be found. A business convention invite may lead participants to a site where they can choose and fix their itinerary.

• 3D entertainment, Campaign Etc.

Magazines bearing the code may take the reader to a 3D experience where cars advertised may be inspected by rotating the magazine while the camera's fixed on the code. A model may change outfits as you move the mag.

QR codes provide total convenience to users by having readily available information at a scan. These codes change the landscape of trade and communication. In the future, it wouldn't be a surprise if all products, tags, labels, organizations and print ads will bear QR codes to take customers into a whole different shopping, selling and communicating era. There are no limits on how QR codes bridge rich digital and print experience.

Marketing channels are changing and if you are looking for the best way to reach your audience and get the best response, we suggest you give SMS Marketing a try.

Currently we are offering for first time users, 50 free credits to get started with our text message service.

Please visit our site to learn more about this free opportunity to try this marketing channel.

By Brett Jonathan Burky
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_Jonathan_Burky