QR Codes: Brief History and Impact

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Scan for a surprise


If you frequent bars or restaurants these days, you will notice that most of them have done away with traditional paper-based menus and opted for a funny-looking square.

As someone who believes we should strive for paperless options as much as possible, I really appreciate the use of these QR codes.

Now, I don't know about you, but I feel like these pixelated squares are now everywhere, and I don't even know what the "QR" even means.

So, out of curiosity, I did a quick search so you don't have to (you're welcome), and it means Quick Response.

Think of Quick Response Codes as a 2D barcode that stores more data than the traditional lines we are familiar with seeing cashiers scan as we worry about our total bill in the grocery store.

QR Codes can be scanned with most smartphones to quickly access information such as URLs (Uniform Resource Locator), basically the address used to access websites.

With that being said, here is a brief history as well as the impact of QR codes on society:


Brief History

Goal: Create a code for faster reading and larger data storage than traditional barcodes.

Solution: In 1994, Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota, invents QR codes for data tracking and identification.

Fun Fact: They can hold up to 7,089 characters unlike traditional barcodes that can only hold around 20 digits. 

Present:  Camera-equipped smartphones and QR readers lead to wider adoption by the general public.


Impact

Marketing and Advertising

Businesses use QR codes to direct consumers to websites, social media pages, promotional offers, and more.

Healthcare

During the COVID-19 pandemic, QR codes played a crucial role in contact tracing, digital health passes, and vaccination records.

Education

Educational institutions utilize QR codes to distribute learning materials, conduct surveys, and manage attendance.

Entertainment and Events

Event organizers use QR codes for ticketing and access control. Attendees can scan their tickets at entry points, reducing the need for physical tickets and speeding up the check-in process.

Environmental Impact

Reducing paper usage helps lower deforestation rates and minimizes waste, aligning with sustainability goals.


In conclusion, QR codes have become an integral part of modern society, transforming various industries by offering a convenient and efficient way to access information and services. 


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