A QR (“quick response”) code is a two-dimensional, abstract barcode-looking graphic that, when scanned by a smartphone or tablet camera (via an app), automatically pulls up URLs, text, contact information, photos, video, coupons, and other useful information. While still a rarity in the U.S. (they were invented in 1994 by a Toyota subsidiary in Japan), QR codes are cheap and easy, and professionals are finding creative ways to incorporate them into their business practices. We take a quick look at what QR codes can do for your business.
Offline to Online Call-to-Action. These mobile-friendly codes are being used by businesses to point people in the offline space to online resources in the most efficient way possible.
Small Ad, No Problem. By placing a QR code on an ad (print, digital signage, and TV commercials), it allows you to provide more information about your company or product than would fit in an ad.
Networking Success. When placed on a traditional business card, QR codes are a quick, easy and unique way to exchange contact information with other business professionals.
Targeted Recruiting. With QR codes, companies can link essential information about their culture and job openings, and promote specific job postings in places where their target talent lives, works, and plays.
Marketing Materials. Companies are placing QR codes on fliers, brochures, programs, handouts, whitepapers, and other materials as additional promotions. See what the Detroit Red Wings did with QR codes in their arena programs.
Track & Build. Businesses can track the number of times a QR code was scanned, and determine which ad medium has the greatest reach if used across media formats. If you work with a third party, you can collect additional information from scanners and it’s an easy way to build a database of customers or potential prospects.
While QR codes are not mainstream yet in the U.S., local companies say the novelty of QR codes are a way to grab attention. Launched in the automotive industry and now popular in the real estate market, QR codes are slowly but surely proving to be successful across all industries and business sizes. Just remember, the most important goal of implementing QR codes is to drive customers to some kind of online action. A link to a website with no kind of action is a complete misunderstanding of what a QR code is and should be used for.
Want to start scanning? For iPhone users, search the app store for “barcode reader,” or “QR code scanner.” For Andriod users, a popular app is “Barcode Scanner.”
From www.werremeyer.com/2011/09/on-our-radar-making-sense-of-digital-and-print-advertising/
