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The Versatility of QR Codes

How QR codes revolutionize information access

November 2023

QR codes have become an essential part of our daily lives. These square-shaped patterns filled with black modules may seem unassuming, but their applications are both practical and versatile. In this article, we'll explore the world of QR codes and their everyday uses. Learn more about the working of QR codes or the different types of QR codes in our other blogs.

1

Contactless Payments

QR codes have revolutionized the way we make payments. Mobile payment apps like PayPal, Venmo, and various banking apps allow users to make quick and secure transactions by scanning a QR code. This technology has greatly simplified the payment process, making it convenient for both customers and businesses.

2

Marketing and Advertising

Businesses use QR codes in their marketing efforts. By scanning a QR code on a poster, flyer, or product packaging, customers can instantly access additional information, discounts, or promotional content. This creates an interactive experience and strengthens the connection between brands and their audience.

3

Ticketing and Boarding Passes

QR codes have largely replaced physical tickets and boarding passes. Airline tickets, event tickets, and public transport passes are often issued in QR code format. This not only saves paper but also makes it easier for travellers to access and store tickets on their smartphones. It also provides easier shareability with other travelers and simplifies traveling together.

4

Inventory and Asset Management

In the business world, QR codes are used for efficient inventory and asset management. Each item can be labeled with a unique QR code, allowing for easy tracking, updating, and organization of stock and assets.

5

Contactless Menu Access

Many restaurants now offer QR codes on their menus or on tables. Customers are able to scan the code to access the menu on their smartphones, reducing the need for physical menus and saving up a lot of printing and paper waste. This practice has become especially popular during the COVID-19 pandemic as it minimizes contact and enhances safety. It is even possible to place your order through the link provided by the QR code, minimizing the need for contact and staff.

6

Healthcare and Patient Records

QR codes are used in healthcare to access patient records and medical information quickly. QR codes can be seen on patient wristbands for example. Medical professionals can scan the code to link to a patient's electronic health records (EHR), enabling access to the most up-to-date information about a patient's medical history, allergies, medications, and treatment plans.

7

Educational Resources

In education, QR codes are used to provide quick access to additional learning resources. Textbooks, worksheets, and educational materials may contain QR codes that link to videos, interactive content, or supplementary information, enhancing the learning experience.

8

Wi-Fi access

QR codes have made sharing Wi-Fi access more simple and easy than ever. By scanning the QR code, the user will automatically connect to the Wi-Fi without the need to type a long password.

9

Product packaging

Manufacturers often use QR codes on product labels or packaging for consumers to access more detailed information about a product. Customers can scan the QR code to access specifications, usage instructions, ingredient lists, and safety information. Many brands use QR codes to showcase their contribution to sustainability by, for example, explaining their recycling process or eco-friendly practices related to their products.

10

Social media

Link users to your social media accounts such as Facebook and Instagram by providing QR codes with your social media link. Scanning the QR code will directly lead them to your profile, where they can engage with your page. Many social media platforms already offer the ability to create your own custom QR code for your account.