Governments are prone to criticism for what information they choose to share with the public. Transparency has been an issue of debate recently, as demand for more clear communication between the government and its citizens begins to rise. The help promote transparency, the Texas Senate Business and Commerce committee is turning to a powerful tool from the realm of mobile marketing: The QR code.
While is the code is normally reserved for marketing campaigns geared toward a more tech-savvy crowd, they have been gaining the attention of political entities. They are famed for their ability to distribute information almost instantaneously as well as their low cost of production. The codes can be of any size and can contain a wealth of data.
The committee has begun using the codes on copies of their agendas. These documents are always open to public viewing but now curious parties can find out more information regarding events scheduled. Scanning the QR code resolves to a mobile website through which anyone can find detailed information on hearings or proposals.
The codes are still relatively new in the U.S. Several of the most innovative companies have yet to adopt QR codes in their marketing campaigns while others swear by the codes profound performance. There is debate as to whether the codes are a passing phase drummed up by a notoriously fickle industry or if they are here to stay. Whatever the case, the codes only stand to grow in popularity as smart phones and other mobile devices find their way into the hands of the masses.
