Do you remember the first time you saw one of those funny looking barcodes? Even a year ago you rarely saw mention of them. I know my early files include an article by the Wall Street Journal and this was stated in 2009. "Anyone passing by who wants to know more about a project will be able to scan the QR code with a smartphone and learn about the property owner, the approved scope of work and any complaints or violations related to that project," Mr. Bloomberg said. It was an in-depth look at this new and upcoming technology and of course we had to be told that it was already “big” in Japan. I decided that there was something to this and I should start keeping track of it.

I began searching for the elusive “barcode” in January of 2011. Now just a few months later I have a stack of a couple hundred examples of the QR codes or Microsoft TAGS in use. In July of 2011 it's tough to pick up a magazine and not find a 2-D barcode. You can find advertising campaigns like RadioShack and nationwide businesses such as Best Buy and Home Depot currently using 2D barcodes, and even RedPlum.com coupon sheets have the now familiar QR code barcode asking you to just to scan their barcode. 2-D barcodes are everywhere and you can even get them on a T-shirt or jewelry. We have to admit the 2-D barcodes time has come.

That's why I have started this blog and it's accompanying website. I want to connect everything that's a 2-D barcode, QR code or Microsoft TAG and any other new comers. 2DNext will be a place to find information on the latest usage, and celebrate the once lowly “barcode”. So if you're into 2-D barcodes, come aboard and join us!

Best regards,

HV