Tamarac officials look to #QR Codes to enhance public information efforts

Tamarac, the first city in Broward to utilize QR Codes, also uses e-mail updates, Twitter, Facebook and Scribd, an online publishing site, to communicate with residents.

"For us, QR Codes are another tool we will use to reach out to the public. They're a shortcut to more information," said Jeffrey Miller, city manager. "These codes will not replace any communication methods that we already use; they will simply enhance our efforts and the message."

Readers of the January issue of the Tamagram, Tamarac's official newsletter, will see the city's first use of the codes. This month's issue of the Tamagram features QR Codes that give enhanced information about city programs and events as well as links to the city and Broward Sheriff's Office website and the city's Flickr account, an online photo sharing service.

"They're essentially short cuts to more information and it's a lot easier than typing in a long URL or using a pen. You can just scan the QR Code and go back to the information," Quinn said.

As the months progress, the city will utilize more codes in city parks and facilities and public art displays. "We're going to use them quite heavily," Quinn said. "If you're at the dog park you can scan the QR Code and that will take you to more information about the park." QR Codes located on public statues or other art will provide information about the art and the artist who created it. Read More