What is a QR code? The textbook definition of a QR Code is a "two-dimensional barcode created by Japanese corporation Denso-Wave in 1994." The “QR” is derived from “Quick Response.” It's a type of Matrix or Two Dimensional barcode. Rather than use a linear or laser type reader, you use an imager — like the camera of an iPhone or a bar-code scanner that will scan linear and also has an imager scan engine.

My definition? "Another existing technology that will solve many business problems." There are several QR code versions, all of which allow varying amounts of information. The size of the QR code has little impact. In fact, if you have a QR code displayed on a screen during a presentation, it’s likely that someone in the audience could use their iPhone or Android to take a photo of the code, and if they have the app on their phone then action could be taken concerning the contents of the code. It’s very common to embed a URL in the QR code that directs you to a website.

Now I really don’t care who developed the code or the specifics of how it’s constructed — but I do care about what it can do for us in both our personal and business lives. Being able to look past the technology, and imagine the use, is the key to using it to the fullest.

Hey linear bar-codes… you’d better look out! QR codes could ultimately replace you!

QR Codes: A Case Study

The Case: A company servicing the Oil and Gas industry has a substantial vehicle fleet worth tens of thousands of dollars.

They use a robust web-hosted software solution to manage the maintenance and other information regarding each of the fleet assets.

Since the fleet is mobile, individuals struggle to keep timely and accurate maintenance schedules and physical locations of each asset. They also find it difficult to gain a mobile, in-the-field view of any given asset. When vehicles are not in the field they are not generating new business or income.

The Solution: We placed QR codes on each vehicle. Fleet managers capture the code on an iPhone, iPad or other imaging device, and they are taken directly to that asset in their software solution.

This can be done not only at their facility, but anywhere they have phone coverage — like in a corn field. Information can then be viewed or updated regarding that asset. In fact, we also placed the QR code on a key chain so if you have the keys to any vehicle you can also access that asset’s information.

The Benefits: Vehicles no longer sit unused. Timely updates of where vehicles are, the maintenance history, and what vehicles are doing is now updated and visible in the system.

Asset number entry is now accurate resulting in credible historical data. Management and staff are now able to focus on income generating and customer care events.

The Net Result? You guessed it… PROFIT!    

Dan Belanger is the President of the Belanger Technology and Consulting Group. His background includes 30 years of solution-based action in multiple business models including Distribution, Manufacturing, Warehousing, Facilities Management, Service, Retail and Information Systems. Contact him at: 702-785-7331 or dan@danbtg.com. Visit the website at: www.beltechgroupinc.com. You may also reach Dan at: www.linkedin.com/in/belangerdan/