QR codes are quickly gaining traction here in the US. With almost 1/3 of Americans (ages 12 and up) carrying smartphones, and given the spontaneous and instantaneous nature of the web, it’s very little surprise that QR codes are becoming accepted at an amazing rate! Add to this, the viral nature of most marketing strategies, and you get an even broader appeal. Heck, even the US Postal Service sees the QR code potential, and is planning to run a special Mobile Barcode Promotion soon.
What are QR codes?
QR codes (Quick Response) are 2-dimensional barcodes that were originally designed for inventory tracking. You’ve probably used QR codes without even realizing it – like when you’ve rented a movie from any of those RedBox machines. The little checkerboard-looking code in the middle of that DVD case is a QR code which is scanned inside the machine to help it know which movies are available at that location. At any time, RedBox knows who has what DVD, where and when they returned it, or if it’s been reserved online and needs to be made unavailable until it’s picked up… all using QR codes.
Most smartphone and web-enabled phones have QR code readers available, allowing anyone to take a picture of any QR code and instantly trigger whatever event was intended. In most cases, it might be a link to a specific website or video, but can also be used to add someone’s information to your phone's contact list, or to enroll in SMS/text message promotions. The possibilities are endless, and MANY marketers are jumping at the chance to find now and creative ways to use QR codes.
Why use QR codes?
Aside from the “cool” factor which might appeal those who get excited by tech, there are so many practical reasons for using QR codes:
Connect people anytime, anywhere – So many people have smartphones, and they almost always have them with them. So if they want to snap the QR code in that moment, they are connected to whatever information you want them to see!
Update info INSTANTLY – If you plan your QR code and links correctly, you can constantly update or change the information that’s being linked. So you can update product information, switch linked videos, change the SMS/texting messages, or anything else you want to keep current…. WITHOUT having to change out all your QR coded pieces.
Possibilities are LIMITLESS – You can literally add a QR code to ANYTHING: Posters, Banners, Flyers, Business Cards, Postcards, Envelopes, T-shirts, Tablecloths, Menus, Place Settings, Table-top Displays, Window Clings, and on, and on…. And when THAT list ends, you start to consider how many things you can LINK to: product videos, assembly or usage instructions, social media channels, e-promotional signups, discount and savings memberships, new promotional information, employees interviews, testimonials, driving directions, contact information, and so much more!
I’m convinced! Now what?
So you want to find out the most creative and innovative ways to use QR codes to help you stand out, arm your customers with up-to-the-minute info, or simple earn some extra COOL points? Well, a great place to start is by giving us a call and speaking with any member of our helpful staff. Our team of Experts will be more than happy to consult with you on any project, and help you take your flat printed pieces to the NEXT LEVEL!