These quick response codes are meant to make it faster and easier to access online billing options.
The new BaltiMeter smart water meters were first introduced by the Mayor and representatives from the Department of Public Works (DPW) in Baltimore, back in August, and now QR codes have been added to the water bills in the city, taking another step forward in the use of technology.
The goal is to make it easier and faster for consumers to pay their water bills over their smartphones.
The DPW in Baltimore have now announced a full system based on QR codes. The system was demonstrated, and showed the way in which computer assisted billing can make the process much simpler and more convenient for residents of the city. Virtually any barcode reader app will do, provided that it is compatible with quick response codes. There are dozens of options available on nearly every mobile operating system, for free.
The QR codes on the bill can be scanned in order to immediately access the online payment site.
This can allow a smartphone or tablet user to be able to be directed immediately to the online bill paying site, where they can pay their water bills right away. According to the Director of the DPW, Rudolph S. Chow, “I am committed to making the DPW a more customer-focused agency, providing the best possible service now and into the future.” Chow added that “The addition of a QR code is another convenience for our customers.”
These QRcodes are only the latest in a number of upgrades being implemented by the department. At the end of last month, the city announced that it was entering into a contract worth $8.4 million with Itineris in order to provide the new computer networking and software that is necessary to create a connection with an estimated $83.5 million worth of new electronic water meters that it intends to install throughout the city over a period of at least three years.
The meters, computers, and the software are central to the new ability to read, bill, and use QR codes to make payments in a much more efficient and high tech manner.