QR codes are all the rage in many developed countries worldwide. This post discusses why this feature has not taken off in the Caribbean, and suggests how to get started.

A QR code for ICT Pulse website

QR (Quick Response) codes are 2-dimensional barcodes that consist of black squares on a white background, which are readable by smartphones, QR readers and computing devices with a webcam. Although similar to a standard barcode, they can store considerably more information – up to 7,089 numeric, or 4,296 alphanumeric characters (Denso Wave) – and are usually used to encode text, URLs and other data.

QR codes were developed in Japan where they have been used widely for a number of years. Although their use has been gradually spreading across the globe, reports are that they are truly poised to take off, due to the proliferation of smartphones worldwide, along with the code’s ease of use and flexible application.

QR codes in the Caribbean

So why haven’t QR codes taken off in the Caribbean? There are perhaps a number of reasons for this. Firstly, it might be ignorance – people are just not aware of how easy it is to create QR codes and how they can be used. Secondly, and perhaps more critically, there is a sense that we are still grappling with harnessing the Internet, i.e. to take advantage of the myriad tools and features that are available to promote our businesses or interests.

In that regard, we must acknowledge that although mobile phones are virtually ubiquitous, and smartphones ownership in the region is quite high, most web content is not optimised for access via mobile phones. Websites are usually designed for PCs, which have considerably greater processing power and larger viewing areas (screens) than most mobile devices. With regard to mobile or smartphones, the emphasis is still on mobile applications (m-apps) – programmes created to bring specific services and capabilities to mobile devices, with little consideration being given to improving the mobile web browsing experience.

Finally, a case can perhaps be made that smartphones are still a novelty in the Caribbean, and are seen primarily as a communication tool and for entertainment – to talk, to text, to listen to music, to take photos and to play games. Whilst they might be considered indispensible, we really are not taking full advantage of the power and capabilities of the smartphone, which is leaving us at a distinct disadvantage with regard to e-readiness. The short video below, show one of the innovative ways in which QR codes are being used in South Korea to take some of the hassle out of grocery shopping.

Popular applications of QR codes

The above clip showed one of a multitude of ways QR codes can be used. Due to the volume of information that can be stored within the code, they can be used to send information – similar to an email or even a tweet. Additionally, they are frequently used for marketing, such as to point to websites or to specific content online, or to provide information or promotional materials. The video below suggests 21 uses for QR codes.

Getting started

Creating QR codes is simple. There are several free generators available online that will create the code, including:

However, the challenge might be deciding where and how best to use the code, particularly for those who wish to incorporate them in marketing campaigns and to stimulate action. It is also advisable that content be specifically created for the QR codes, and should be optimised for mobile access.

Finally, since QR code use in the region is still developing, businesses using them could provide incentives to increase the chances of persons scanning the code. They could include providing coupons, discount vouchers, free games, or any other material that users may find valuable.

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