With the increase of mobile devices (iphone/droid etc...) one nice way of providing certain information is the use of the QR ("quick response") square barcode. You see them on business cards, real estate signs, magazines, products, etc... and the list goes on. This little barcode makes getting URL's, location coordinates, any text, or contact information onto your mobile device instantly. With a barcode application installed, you just point the camera at the code to read its content. To the left I have created my own VCard Personal QR Code which contains my website, address, phone, and associated business information. Give it a try!

Yes, I know, this is just a regular barcode but dressed up differently to look way cooler. Yep, but the point is that even though it is old technology, it is cool. Just like most things, it is the way it is packaged and accepted by the general population which makes it popular (just put lipstick on that pig!). So rather then look at this from an engineer perspective, look at it as a marketing opportunity and seize the moment.

There are many personal qr generators and readers out there you can find just by doing a general search through the net. However, make sure that when you do find one you think will work for you and your given situation, make sure it does not embed any extra information (i.e. like advertising another site instead of yours). So, do your homework and test it out before you put it out there to market your info!

Check out the video which does a really nice job of going into more detail regarding personal qr codes. I think they do a great job of going over the topic and are very personable as well. Remember, it may not be new technology, but it does provide a new avenue of marketing with a strong presence and flair!