What are QR codes for customers and how are they used?
QR codes, short for “quick response codes,” are an advanced form of barcodes that offer enhanced capabilities for storing and retrieving information. They have evolved to meet the increasing demand for more data storage and versatile applications.
Similar to traditional barcodes, QR codes are designed to hold information that can be read by machines or devices. However, QR codes utilize a two-dimensional dot matrix, allowing them to store a wide range of data.
QR codes find applications across various industries and purposes, including:
- Website URLs: QR codes can contain specific website addresses or landing pages, enabling quick access to online content.
- App Links: They can direct users to app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store for convenient app downloads.
- Payments: QR codes can store payment-related information, such as bank account details or credit card information, facilitating secure and seamless transactions.
- Account Authentication: Websites can display QR codes for registered users to scan, granting them automatic login access to their online accounts.
- And much more: The potential uses of QR codes are extensive, covering a wide range of operations and functionalities.
QR codes provide a convenient and efficient way to share information and engage with customers in various contexts. By scanning QR codes, users can easily access relevant content, make payments, authenticate their identities, and perform many other tasks.
How DTRACER Utilizes QR Codes for Product Traceability
DTRACER leverages QR codes to establish comprehensive product traceability and enhance security using blockchain technology.
For each registered product, DTRACER generates a unique QR code and associates it with an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) on the blockchain network. This ensures the authenticity and immutability of the product’s identification.
The QR code serves multiple purposes throughout the product’s journey. It facilitates differentiation between transportation stages, authorized sales, and the end customers of the brand. By scanning the QR code, various stakeholders can access crucial information and track the product’s movement.
Here’s how the process works:
- Product Registration: When a product is registered in the DTRACER system, a unique QR code is generated. This code is then assigned to the product and becomes an integral part of its traceability.
- Secure Transport: The QR code accompanies the product throughout its transportation. Whether using DTRACER’s carriers or independent carriers, each pick-up and delivery is recorded, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Authorized Sales: Only sellers authorized by the brands or manufacturers can activate product sales through a secure user and pin system. This prevents unauthorized individuals from selling products without prior agreements.
- Customer Interactions: Once a sale is activated, the end customer gains access to various features. They can activate warranties, request warranty extensions (if available), obtain certificates of authenticity, or transfer ownership of the acquired product.
All these state changes and interactions are recorded on the blockchain network, creating unique, tamper-proof blocks for each transaction. This ensures both the brand/manufacturer and the end customer have complete traceability of the product’s entire lifecycle.
By employing QR codes and blockchain technology, DTRACER empowers brands, manufacturers, and customers with unparalleled transparency and trust in product traceability.