1. [ Team 16 ]

3.  A QR code is a 2D matrix bar code readable by smart phones or other electronics with a camera and the appropriate reader application  Initially developed by Denso Wave and released in 1994

4.  The QR stands for Quick Response  Initially used in manufacturing to mark different parts  Can contain any alphanumeric text and often feature URL's that direct users to sites where they can learn about an object or place

5.  An important distinction between a regular bar code and a QR code:

6. Numeric onlyMax. 7,089 characters AlphanumericMax. 4,296 characters Binary (8 bits)Max. 2,953 bytes  According to Denso Wave, a regular sized UPC code holds approximately 20 digits  On the other hand, the capacity of a QR code:

7.  Significant use in Japan and South Korea

8. Applications of QR

9.  A notable application of QR codes has been in the promotion aspect of marketing  QR codes can contain a large volume of information and can be placed conveniently in advertisements, taking up little space  This way, an advertisement does not have to be cluttered with text because details can be stored on a webpage that is accessible by scanning the QR code on the poster/advertisement Promotion

12. Transactions  For customers, purchases can be made by scanning QR codes  Carrying credit/debit cards could become unnecessary if QR and smartphones become widespread for making transactions

14. Consumer Retail and Services  Retailers can use QR for promotion and to make transactions  The transaction aspect creates convenience for customers  The promotion aspect is very flexible because QR codes can be placed anywhere and are easy to generate

15. Consumer Retail and Services  We are unsure of whether QR will revolutionize retail and consumer services  The emergence of QR is more so a symptom of greater use of technology in business rather than a revelation on its own right