How to create a QR (quick response) barcode – (Its easy)

QR Barcoding

QR_BarcodingHow to create a QR BarcodeQR codes have become of high interest to marketers (including us as Tampa Web Design experts) because it is a way to track viewers and sponsorship. This ultimately helps businesses understand how much money should be put into marketing their company.

Media where QR codes have been used have been billboard ads, in-store displays, event ticketing and tracking, trade-show management, business cards, print ads, contests, direct mail campaigns, websites, email marketing, and couponing just to name a few.

QR codes are found internationally which means barcoding is a language that everyone can understand. This is great for implementing QR codes in tourist destinations, big cities, and with famous products.

Creating QR Codes is Easy

So how do you create one of these interactive barcodes? It is very easy and free. Companies like Kaywa allow you to create a simple QR (Quick Response) barcode that is ready to scan instantly. Place it on your flyer or business card for print or share its permalink and embed it into your website or blog.

Other providers like, Zxing Project , delivr , QR Stuff , or Maestro can give you some different approaches with customizable features.

Simple Guidelines

Make sure to test your barcode before launching your 2-D barcode. Many sites have a reader you can download on your mobile device. Another way to find a barcode application is to search on mobile devices app stores with the keyword “barcode reader.” To simply put it, make sure it works. Try testing on multiple mobile devices in different sizes and made by different carriers.

If your barcode links to a website make sure your website is mobile friendly. If the website is hard to navigate on a cell phone, your ad has no meaning to the viewer. For example, RSSmachine is an RSS 2.0 template, 10 CSS style sheets and XSL, XSD & OPML files. Unlike other feeds, those made with RSSmachine are designed to reach mobile audiences.

Make sure you track your results. One way is to measure in-bound hits by using a tracking program like Google Analytics. Another way is to partner with Scan Life, Microsoft or another 2-D code provider to track data using their systems.

The best 2-D code experiences inspire prospects or customers to come back for more. They got from point A to point B without any trouble and they are satisfied with their experience.

Case Studies

According to a recent report published by ScanLife, an estimated 30-40% of all smartphone users have downloaded a barcode scanning application. The report went further to say that in 2010, there was a 1600% increase in mobile barcode scanning and mobile bar code scanning doubled in the 4th quarter of 2010. The study also highlighted a survey that found that 97% of respondents found mobile barcodes useful in some capacity.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) will launch a new service using QR codes. The barcodes will link to promotional campaigns for the USPS and if you place their barcode on your mail, you will receive a discount on the cost of sending.

Closure Systems International (CSI) manufactures a great deal of the bottle caps found on common beverages; beer, juice, water, milk, soda, etc. Recently, CSI announced that they will be testing ScanCap, a system that uses ScanLife Micro EZcodes. The codes will be printed inside or outside of the bottle cap and will have the ability to link to the online content of the beverage company’s choosing.

QR codes are virtual links connecting the offline and online world. Using barcode technology is simple, fast, and in the palm of your hand.

What do you think about QR Barcoding? Are you planning to use it for your business?