QR codes, short for quick response codes, are two-dimensional (2D) barcodes used to transfer information through barcode readers that can be found on most mobile phones. You have probably already seen a 2D barcode, as they are commonly placed on credit card statements, bills, and other bulk mail pieces. When embedded in mailed correspondence, the paper and digital worlds can be linked, easily encoding customer information for quick processing.QR codes are rapidly popping up all over magazines, advertisements, billboards, and of course, custom product labels. Unlike traditional one-dimensional barcodes, quick response codes can contain more usable information, in a more reliable format. Traditional barcodes hold information horizontally, from left to right, which limits the amount of data they can store. Two-dimensional barcodes store information both vertically and horizontally in a repeating format. This not only allows for more data to be stored, but repeating information throughout the code ensures that if a code is scuffed or damaged, the message can still be read.Many quick response codes rely on mobile phones for translation. If you have a camera-enabled cell phone, you already have the ability to read almost any QR code. Some phones require an app to interpret the code, while others simply use their camera and text messaging capabilities to decode the message. The technology used to read a code depends on the phone being used, and the technology used to create the code and the related content.When you encounter a QR code on a label or any other medium, you simply open your code reader app or camera, scan the code, and await the response. Generally, scanning a quick response code will give access to special content, discounts or exclusive materials. These are an easy way to make your product labels interactive and give instant gratification to your customers.Instant gratification is one of the reasons QR code campaigns can be successful. Successful campaigns have had engagement rates of up to 60%, which far exceeds normal direct-mail response rates. If a customer sees a special offer on a product label, they no longer want to wait to mail in a rebate or go home and visit a website. They want an immediate answer. QR codes provide the instant response consumers are craving. For example, if you want to offer a discount on your product, you embed the discount in the 2D barcode. Consumers can scan the code and receive the savings at the register.The most appealing aspect to QR codes, from a business standpoint, is the content can change. If you want to offer a discount for a short period of time and then change the offer to a discount on a sister product or perhaps provide a special recipe or rotating content, you can do it. Unlike traditional barcodes which are tied to specific content, the offerings through a QR code can be updated or changed to reflect your current marketing or promotional campaign.How can you use a QR code on your custom product labels? First, think about what is important to your customers. It is not always as simple as a discount, although discounts can have a big impact. Maybe you want to provide a special recipe or a short video about how to use your product would be valuable to consumers. Perhaps your product has a celebrity endorsement. Fans will be excited to scan your code, which may have an exclusive interview with their favorite star.Remember, don't limit yourself to only your product's main label. A QR code campaign is the perfect promotional avenue for product samples and give-aways. Oftentimes, there is not enough room on a free sample to include all the promotional or product information you want to share with prospective consumers. A QR code can provide additional information, like where your product can be purchased, that can be key to gaining new customers and increasing your market share.Unlike traditional barcodes or UPCs, which are not part of the overall product branding, QR codes should fit into the product's label design. The code is the key ingredient to the product's promotion, so it should not be an after thought or simply placed next to the UPC. In most cases, the quick response code is the main call-to-action on the label. It should be placed prominently on the label so consumers can easily identify it and take action. (Tip: 2D barcodes need white space around the edges in order to work. Make sure the code is not too crowded so it can be scanned correctly.)Since QR codes are fairly new to many consumers in the US, it is paramount to test the code to ensure it works with a variety of mobile phones. If consumers find the codes unreliable or difficult to navigate, the technology will not be accepted. Also remember the content will most likely be viewed on a mobile device, so it must be optimized for mobile viewing. Once you have the code and content prepared, test, test, and test again.Almost every business can find a way to take advantage of QR codes. Whether you are promoting a product or a special service, incorporating an interactive QR code will hopefully intrigue consumers enough to give it a try. Many business owners strongly believe if they can get consumers to at least try their product, they will be hooked. A QR code may just be the key ingredient to growing your business and selling more products.QRscanner.org is an online QR scanner and QR code reader. It is a perfect tool for QR Code Scanner online. You can scan QR code from any device like iPhone, iPad, and operating system like android, window.