They’re everywhere, those black graphic squares that look like some kind of pixelized code or needlepoint. They’re QRCs or quick response codes. I wondered what their origin was, so I turned to the most trusted source in the world for accurate information. No not Reuters, Wikipedia:

 
A QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response code) is a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code) designed to be read by smartphones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded may be text, a URL, or other data.

 
Created by Toyota subsidiary Denso Wave in 1994, the QR code is one of the most popular types of two-dimensional barcodes. The QR code was designed to allow its contents to be decoded at high speed.[1]
My question is, can’t there be any part of our life anymore that isn’t game for advertising? Answer: No.

 
Everything is fair game. Smart phones and apps have turned all of us into information remoras, seeking nourishment in the form of websites and coupons by whatever means necessary. Now that our minds have been trained to associate these QR hieroglyphics with info, companies can’t get start designing them fast enough. At Indigo Studios, the 3d graphics leader in Atlanta, we’ve yet to make the QRC plunge. Companies definitely have increased the popularity of the codes. But how applicable are the codes to everyday commerce?
Steve Demby, COO of Atella, a web building and mobile app developer, writes:
Here are a few examples how companies currently use QR codes:

• Popular magazine companies display QR codes on their front covers, that takes readers to a mobile webpage where they can read additional articles and information that’s not contained the print version.
• Major Airlines are now using QR codes for mobile boarding passes.
• Construction companies such as Volvo Rents (one of our clients), are starting to place these codes on their equipment. Users can scan the code to view installation instructions, equipment specifications documents, videos, or to begin the rental reservation process.
• They are a quick way to send users to mobile Customer Feedback forms
• The codes are an easy way to provide directions to your business
• Many companies are adding QR codes to their websites, where you can scan the code to download their mobile applications
• Companies take users to pages where they click LIKE buttons for Facebook, Twitter, Google+.

All very interesting, but what good are they? Again, it’s all about the need for speed and the need to know. Demby continues:
How can QR Codes Help your Business?

 
As shown above, QR codes can be for a variety of purposes to help you get information quickly to your customers and their feedback.
Successfully gaining users to LIKE your social media pages or click the Google+ button for your website, can greatly increase your companies online presence, and help your website to return higher in search engines.

 
Use QR codes to assist with marketing campaigns and present them with Call to Actions that result in profits to your business.
Whenever you use a QR code, make sure you explain the purpose of the code so non-technical users understand their purpose.
Ok, we’ll definitely consider QRCs at Indigo Studios. We’re always looking for ways to broaden the scope of 3d graphics in Atlanta to a wider audience.