Xerox's new self-clocking glyph codes, branded as DataGlyph technology, enable data to flow from the paper world back into the computer world as easily as they flow out.
A glyph is a tiny line, which stands for a 0 or a 1, depending on whether it slants 45 degrees to the left or the right. A patch of glyphs appears to the human eye as an unobtrusive gray pattern. It can be easily integrated into borders, shading patterns, and graphic elements without destroying the look and utility of ordinary paper documents. Glyph codes can be read even if the glyph area has been crumpled, photocopied, stapled, faxed, or scribbled on.
Most importantly, no special equipment beyond standard printers and scanners is needed to use glyphs. Using a 300 dpi laser printer, you could fit the Gettysburg address in a 1.5-inch square.
Some suggested uses for glyph codes: encoding formulas for spreadsheets in the spreadsheet's borders; including demographic or other recipient data in direct-mail pieces and marketing coupons; including information relevant to document structure and revision history; and imprinting a résumé onto a business card.
Xerox is working with a number of software vendors to bring glyph codes to the public within the next six months to a year. Given their potential utility and easy use, it would not be surprising if Xerox's embedded glyph codes became as familiar as, say, the photocopier.
ELECTRIC WORD
Mandatory Videogame: Play or No Pay
Smart Paper
