Bryn Mawr Trust: Rebirth of QR Codes Has Streamlined the Way We Live Through the Pandemic, Beyond

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QR Codes
Image via Bryn Mawr Trust.

The sudden need for touchless transactions brought about the rebirth of QR codes, and it seems as if they are here to stay. More and more people are becoming aware of what QR codes even are. The scannable blocks have been widely used in the consumer market for quite a while, although they hadn’t been living up to their full potential. However, over the last year, they have been used much more frequently and on an enormous scope. These codes are used just about everywhere, from restaurants to advertisements and even on social media. This simple technology has streamlined the way we live through the pandemic and beyond.

QR Codes Explained

Quick response (QR) codes are scannable images that were created to track parts in complex manufacturing processes. They are now also used for touch-free purchasing, linking to websites, displaying multimedia, joining a Wi-Fi network, ordering from restaurants, and even video game functions. The applications offer endless possibilities, which have been very helpful for brands, such as providing a digital menu ordering or joining a loyalty program. QR codes are so helpful, but the slow adoption of broader usage until now has been due to a lack of integration. At first, many people had to have a separate QR code reader app to scan them. Also, people typically like to stick with what they know, so thinking about learning new ways of living is not always appealing.

Surging QR Code Usage

The pandemic has forced us to change the way we live our lives and, therefore, how we use QR codes. These codes have allowed restaurants and retail stores to stay in business while employees socially distance. And now staff and customers don’t need to handle cash, cards, and menus. QR codes are exceeding their purpose by enabling these convenient interactions and transactions amid a pandemic. Now we can see QR codes just about everywhere we go.

Other software systems have helped make this evolution a reality, such as restaurant POS system companies figuring out how QR codes can be integrated into their ordering process. Retail stores and payment software companies are also offering this functionality in their systems. Instagram is now equipped with a QR scan to discover profiles and view business information, while LinkedIn allows for QR code sharing, which links to their profiles.

QR Codes for Branding

QR codes are great for branding as they can be linked to print marketing or out-of-home ads directly to a website or landing page. This offers a streamlined approach with no added expense since there is no hardware or maintenance needed. Nowadays, most cell phones are built with code readers in the phone camera. There are even a variety of free websites to create your own codes. QR codes are a low-risk, easy way to test how your target audience will react and engage.

Learn more about Bryn Mawr Trust.

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