In case you do not live in the 21st century of technology, a QR (Quick Response) code is basically a 2D barcode. Camera phones can scan and identify the information which lies within the code, such as text or a URL. Check out the image on the right to see what one looks like.

QR codes have been around for a while, but have recently become very popular with companies in the US. It is a great way to advertise and get people connected to a company. As a consumer, I have used them many times. When I see an advertisement with a QR code, I scan it just to see what the company is using the QR code for. Most of the time it is a promotional code linking me to the company’s website to get a discount or coupon. It is a very smart advertising tool. I have a tendency to take advantage of a promotion I received from a QR code compared to a print ad, because I keep the promotion in my phone and can access it anywhere. Companies should be taking advantage of this advertising method!

Aniden recently did an interactive project for IFC at South by Southwest in Austin, TX. We incorporated QR codes in the project, allowing consumers to take the experience with them. It was awesome!

Check out our IFC UI design and see how we incorporated QR codes.

Next time you see a QR code, scan it on your phone and check it out. Who knows, you could end up with a really sweet deal. If you are a company trying to come up with new ways to advertise, get in the 21st century and use QR codes.