QR codes were originally developed in Japan for use in the automotive industry. QR stands for 'quick record' and that's the whole point really. These codes made for quick reading which in turn made work processes much more efficient. Nowadays, they're everywhere - mainly used for advertising or marketing purposes, giving the average Joe a little extra info on what he's looking at. But not always. Some people have done some really fun, creative stuff with QR codes too.
1 The Talking Resume
According to Victor Petit, the guy who came up with this genius idea, he was sick of not getting to the interview stage when applying for jobs. So he decided he would make sure that potential employers heard his voice, hence the talking resume. There have been a tonne of advertising campaigns inspired by this stunt since.
2 The Interactive Magazine Cover
To promote the online version of this iconic magazine, the guys at Time launched a campaign using QR codes. These appeared on a series of magazine covers inside the classic red box as well as on billboards and other forms of advertising. What's particularly nice about this campaign are the unique and beautiful designs of the QR codes, proving they can be both functional and a work of art at the same time.
3 The Animated Tattoo
A tattooist named K.A.R.L in Paris created a tattoo that was interactive in more than one way. First of all he live-streamed the whole sitting and Facebook users were able to make comments as he went along. What's more, he incorporated a QR code into the design, making this groundbreaking work the first ever animated tattoo in the world. When the little cartoon gets started it's hard not to smile as much as Marco does.
4 The Edible QR Codes
These Qkies were invented by an innovative German company called Juchem Gruppe. You can get a box of the cookie mix and 20 codes printed on edible paper for 6,90 EUR. These codes link to any site you want them to, it could be a YouTube video or a party invitation for friends. Then you or your pals get to eat the biscuits afterwards!
5 The Building Made (Almost) Entirely From QR Codes
This stunning structure went on show at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The floors and ceilings of the Russian Pavilion were made entirely of QR codes. The codes linked visitors to more info about a new sort of city in Russia dedicated to science and technology called the Skolkovo.
These ideas are breathtaking huh? There's so much you can do with this technological innovation! Why not make use of QR codes in your promotional materials? Companies like Kremer Signs can even take care of the whole process for you.
These ideas are breathtaking huh? There's so much you can do with this technological innovation! Why not make use of QR codes in your promotional materials? Companies like Kremer Signs can even take care of the whole process for you.