The ability to connect physical items to digitally stored information has resulted in quick response (QR) code integration into the business architecture of many organisations. Not only are QR codes easy to use, but they also enable businesses to store a wealth of information, which has led to the widespread adoption of this technology across all facets of business operations.
The adoption of QR technology for Australian businesses comes decades after barcode labelling dramatically increased the efficiency of scannable, stored information. Many of today’s organisations still use traditional barcodes to identify hardware, shipping manifests and other important assets and resources – although statistics show the deployment of QR is rapidly growing.
Digital Journal reports that the QR code labels market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.9% by 2027, highlighting the widespread implementation of this technology across today’s fast-paced, information-driven workflows.
Capable of storing around 20 alphanumeric characters, traditional barcode technology provides efficient, easily accessible and succinct information to scanning devices and linked platforms. Modern scannable QR codes, on the other hand, can hold up to 7,000 alphanumeric characters, enabling a wealth of valuable data to be accessed with just a simple scan.
This article will examine how your business can benefit from this technology and showcase some QR code labelling best practices.
How to create and use QR codes for your business
Creating your own QR code is fast and easy, thanks to devices and software applications designed to facilitate the process. This task can be accomplished in minutes, by following a few simple steps:
- Step 1: Open your web browser, highlight and copy the URL of the site you’d like to link the QR code to
- Step 2: Access your chosen software platform, such as the Brother P-touch Editor, click on “Insert” and then “Bar Code”
- Step 3: The “Protocol” tab will have a drop-down menu which includes “QR code”
- Step 4: Select the tab, and navigate back to “Input” to access a text box in which you copy your URL
- Step 5: Simply press “OK” to complete the process! With a click, you’ve successfully created a QR code
The ability to add text, brand imagery and other data makes this versatile technology an effective business enhancement tool.
3 benefits of using QR codes in your business
From tracking equipment to providing digital receipts, the applications of QR codes are virtually limitless. Here are three ways QR code implementation can enhance efficiency, regardless of your chosen industry.
- Enhanced visibility across the supply chain: The use of QR labelling enables end-to-end oversight for the entirety of the supply chain. QR codes provide a host of data points and can link a physical item to a weblink where an item may be tracked, or other information may be stored. The insight gained from this technology can be used to analyse your supply chain efficiency
- Improved visitor management experiences and security: QR codes can automate processes in your operational workflow and allow quick-scan access and verification for your business environment. Empowering your workforce by providing QR codes at visitor checkpoints can free them to aid in assisting with visitor questions or accomplish other tasks while simultaneously improving the security of your location. QR code verification systems can also instantly access data verification checks from cloud-based platforms
- Increased brand awareness and customer engagement: The retail sector has successfully utilised scannable QR code technology to inform shoppers about sales, promotions and detailed information regarding their products and services. With over 7,000 characters able to be stored on a single code, detailed information about the sustainability efforts behind the creation of a product, for example, can have a great impact on building brand awareness and loyalty
The pandemic has driven businesses to find ways to do things without contact. From contactless check- in services at hotels to contactless menu ordering, these efficient business practices are all facilitated by QR codes and smartphones.
Best practices for implementing barcodes
Selecting the right QR code solution for your business is determined by a number of factors. Every industry has differing software and hardware requirements, and your labelling architecture should provide comprehensive coverage to suit your business needs.
Label durability is a common requirement across all segments of industry, with precise traceability and tracking required to ensure effective product delivery.
The barcodes themselves can be different, depending on the assets being tracked. Scanners are referred to as 1D or 2D barcode scanners. QR codes are just one of several 2D barcode standards, and possess the ability to be read by camera inbuilt to modern smartphones. Many of today’s organisations prefer to use QR codes or 2D scanners, as they are capable of storing more information and don’t need to reference a database. Regardless of your preferred scanning solution, many QR devices come backed by software that can seamlessly integrate with your business architecture.
By deploying a software platform that supports the easy creation of QR codes, and ensuring your scanning devices are equipped to accurately read the information, you’re on your way to implementing this incredibly versatile technology. The high-speed printing and multiple connectivity options of handheld labellers like the Brother P-Touch Cube enable labelling solutions in the palm of your hand, and seamless integration with P-touch Editor allows you to effortlessly create and transfer your labelling ideas.
Tips and tricks on how QR codes can enhance your business
Did you know that you can use QR codes to instantly access information regarding the warranty and maintenance schedules of your assets and resources? Or that you can link back to an online version of a product manual? Scanning a QR code that links to a website containing a product guide is more beneficial than having access to a potentially-outdated physical version.
QR codes bridge the gap between physical objects and digital information. By implementing a QR code platform, you can instantly add layers of real-time observable insight into the status of your equipment and hardware.
You can also utilise this technology to learn how many customers have accessed your products, and timestamps can even provide analysis of when your business enjoys the greatest traffic. Scanning activity can prevent product loss and detail the steps along the journey before a package arrives at a customer’s door. These actionable insights have the potential to benefit your business and showcase cost savings opportunities.
Your codes can also direct users to your brand’s social media accounts, provide “scan and pay” services that bypass busy checkout lines or allow time-sensitive discounts for services at your live events. Given the adaptability of today’s labelling technologies, the opportunities afforded to your business are virtually limitless.
Brother solutions
Brother label makers and printers provide durable and versatile devices designed to increase your operational efficiency. Our thermal printing solutions enable your business to deploy QR codes with the click of a button, capable of storing up to 7,000 alphanumeric characters on a single code.
QR codes can be easily edited or changed even after they’re printed or posted online, so that your important business information or consumer-facing promotions are always up to date. You’ll easily be able to track your QR scans to determine where and when your data is being accessed, providing real-time insight into the metrics that can inform future marketing campaigns or product applications.
The Brother P-touch Editor has everything you need to effortless create and implement your own QR code solution. Learn how you can download and install this software for your business, and contact us for all of your workflow-enhancing needs.
