Disney should start using QR codes throughout the resort

[Mojave]

QR codes are small images that can be read by barcode readers and especially by smart phones with cameras (read more about them on Wikipedia). You can use them to display text or link to urls for more information.

These are simple images that could easily be added to guidebooks, the daily entertainment handouts, on tickets, etc. for informational purposes. They could be integrated into queues or flower planters.

What could you do with them? Get historical information about attractions, find out what type of flower you are looking at, get parade times, even use them to time the length of a queue.

Here are two examples. Use a bar code scanner on your phone to view this through your camera.

"http://disneyland.com"


"Welcome to Disneyland!"


There are other technologies coming soon which might be even more useful, like NFC, but they require special chips in the phone. All QR codes need are a camera and an app to decode them.

[PragmaticIdealist]

It's all good stuff. But, it should be integrated only in a way that does not undermine the believability of fictitious settings.

[Poisonedapples]

That's great and all. But what about those that don't have smart phones...

[Mojave]

I agree they would needed to be integrated into the theme. They would at least fit nicely into the Indy queue or anywhere in Tomorrowland.

Just thought of some other things they could do. They could allow guests to "check-in" at attractions (without the need for GPS or other dedicated apps like Gowalla). They could create treasure hunt type games. Hmm, what else?

For those without smart phones, you're not losing anything. Those with smart phones are just getting something extra.

[Let's Enunciate]

^
We miss out. No need for everyone else to not benefit just because we can't... someone we'll save up and buy one and then we'll be in on the fun too.

[Poisonedapples]

^ But you know.. what if.. what if we can't ever afford to buy a smart phone?do we miss out on the fun also? Is it always going to be then the ones with smart phones get the extra benefits?...oops sorry,rant against smart phones. no harm meant.

[Mojave]

With all due respect, that's kind of a silly argument. After all, I miss out on staying at the GC because I can't afford it - so should no one else get to enjoy it?

[burkesox98]

i dont like the idea. they look tacky, six flags just recently started doing this to promote the green lantern. yeah it might fit in tomorrow land, but back to the point it looks tacky

[PragmaticIdealist]

Smart-phones are going to be brought onto the premises regardless of what Disney does. They might as well be integrated into the experience.

[Mojave]

They can be made to look more beautiful.

http://mashable.com/2011/04/18/qr-code-design-tips/

[PragmaticIdealist]

If I was Disney, I'd start by using a Q.R. code to get guests to download and install a special app. that is creatively-conceived and -designed.

[Poisonedapples]

With all due respect, that's kind of a silly argument. After all, I miss out on staying at the GC because I can't afford it - so should no one else get to enjoy it?

i don't get to stay there either..

the barcodes look tacky.

[PragmaticIdealist]

Disney did integrate a Quick Response code into the display promoting Star Tours that was touring Florida malls. Smart-phone users really like hard links because they are so convenient.

[ArielRocks]

This would be really cool! Great idea!

[Baloo]

Does anyone recommend a good QR and barcode reader for an iPad 2? I have tried a couple and they have too many issues