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Guest contributor Jennifer Graham discusses the benefits of QR Codes.
By Jennifer Graham, Guest Contributor
With more than 5 billion mobile phone users in the world, it’s imperative that your company’s mobile marketing strategy is poised to reach this enormous market. From SMS marketing to mobile websites – the mobile marketing landscape is more confusing than ever. With so many new technologies, it’s difficult to keep up. One of the newest entrants into the mobile marketing mix is QR codes. So, what are they and how can you benefit from them?
With more than 5 billion mobile phone users in the world, it’s imperative that your company’s mobile marketing strategy is poised to reach this enormous market. From SMS marketing to mobile websites – the mobile marketing landscape is more confusing than ever. With so many new technologies, it’s difficult to keep up. One of the newest entrants into the mobile marketing mix is QR codes. So, what are they and how can you benefit from them?
QR, “Quick Response” or “two-dimensional,” codes are special barcodes that can be read by Smartphones and link users directly to mobile content such as a video, coupon, picture or website. A QR code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. They were originally developed in Japan in 1994 by a Toyota subsidiary to track inventory during manufacturing. Though QR codes have been used in Asia for many years, only recently have they become main stream in the US.
To scan a QR code, the user simply downloads a free scanning application from the App Store on their Smartphone. When the app is opened, it opens the phone’s camera to “scan” the code. Once the code is scanned, the user’s phone browser will automatically redirect them to the content. And if that’s not easy enough, soon scanners will be pre-loaded in most phones.
Benefits and Uses
Because QR Codes provide immediate access to mobile information and allow instant interaction, they are a great addition to any print marketing or advertising campaign. Here are a few examples of the benefits of using QR codes and some examples of how they are currently being used:
* Get More Information: QR codes on real estate signs to link potential buyers to pricing and pictures
* Preview a Service: QR codes on movie posters to link patrons to trailers or ticket purchasing
* Compare Products: QR codes on labels for “how to” demos, coupons, tips and tricks, reviews, etc.
* Purchase Instantly: QR codes next to ads for instant purchase power
* Drive Website Traffic: QR codes on ads link readers to website
* Get a Discount: QR codes to download a coupon that can be redeemed on the spot
* Get Noticed: QR codes on business cards and resumes to link to LinkedIn profile, website, or portfolio
Three Marketing Factors When Creating Your QR Code
