Microsoft Tag is a version of two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned using any smart phone that has the free Microsoft Tag app installed. Like QR codes, these tags can be placed almost any place a user might see, and, once scanned, they can connect to the user to online content. The only downside here is that scanning Microsoft Tags can only be done with the Microsoft Tag app, not with a general barcode scanner like the ones QR codes require.
Generating one of these tags is fairly quick and simple, so long as you are registered with a Windows Live ID. Once you've signed in (or signed up), you can begin creating your tags. I'm writing all of this under assumptions, as I experienced quite a few issues when trying to sign up for a Windows Live ID, and as a result, I was not able to complete the sign-up. Technology isn't always perfect, despite what we'd like to believe.
Anyways, according to the Microsoft Tag site, you will simply log into the Tag Manager using your Windows Live ID login. Then, click on "Create a Tag." After that, you just start punching in all your information needed to create your tag. Click the Download button and decide on the size of tag you want, the format you'd like it to be in, and whether it will be a Basic or Custom Tag. Then, your tag will be downloaded and ready to put all over the place!
The option to create a Custom Tag, I think, is the real "selling" point for Microsoft Tags. You have the ability to create completely abstract-looking tags like this...
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| More Examples Here |
Or, you can place an image, graphic, solid color, or gradient behind the tag like this...
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| More Examples Here |
You also have the ability to track the interactions with your tags using the Tag Manager's reporting tools (similar to Google Analytics). With this, you can see what, when, where, and how many times a tag has been scanned. Each of these bits of information can be used to find out the most effective uses of the tags and how to improve return in the future.
Even though created a Microsoft Tag isn't quite as simple as creating a QR code and a specific app is required for scanning, there are several advantages with it's Custom Tag feature. If appearance is a top priority to you, Microsoft Tag can definitely be a great option for you. Plus, this service offers all of the same features you would get when using QR codes.
So, with all of this in mind, happy tagging!
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