A QR Code or (short for “Quick Response Code”) is a series of 2-D figures that can store thousands of digits that translate information. The reason they are becoming so essential in business is because we live in the “I need it now” world. Just like we want movies on demand, as consumers and businesses, we want other information immediately as well.
The QR Code allows users to instantly scan it. QR codes can be found almost anywhere: printed materials like magazines, fliers, business cards, signs, etc. can have QR codes printed on them. Once scanned, that code will take users to a web site, a social media page, a contact for a user’s phonebook, event info and so much more.
These codes can be scanned by any smartphone that has a camera, i.e., Droid, Blackberry, iPhone etc. The QR Code gives the user instant gratification once the code is scanned. Now how does a company make sure it creates these codes simply so users don’t get frustrated?
Well, the first thing is make them clear and usable and printed on something that can be easily scanned. Clothing and newspapers are not always the best choices because the image gets fuzzy and is not sharp enough for the smartphone to capture. One of the very cool elements of the QR code is it’s FREE.
Candidly, if you don’t have one, it’s likely it will cost your company money because your competitors are likely already using them and by the time a potential customer sees your advertising, they may have already clicked on a QR code and gotten the info they wanted or needed from someone else.So if you have gotten this far and understand the concept and the application of the QR code, how do you make it work for your business? It is all about strategic placement and analytics.
First, test it. Make sure it works and be sure when it is scanned, it points to where you want the user to go. Truth is, just because you have a product or service, a new website, book or business does NOT mean the masses will come. With the amount of entrepreneurs and new businesses, there is an assumption that the register will go “kaching!” No, it doesn’t. Once you have your code on a business card or document, be sure it is on something interesting / engaging that will make someone want to scan it. The piece itself needs to be interesting and have a catchy message as to why someone should scan this code.
To sum up, there are many uses for the QR code. They include sharing of information, community relations or calls to action. As with all marketing tools (and yes, ultimately, that’s what this is), it takes some thought as to what the right message should be.
One of the best reasons to use a QR code? You can measure the number of users that took action from scanning it.
Because we all know: If you can’t measure your marketing efforts, it’s probably not worth doing. It is a newer tactic for your marketing efforts, but the reward is the ability to potentially reach an entirely different audience then you have now.
You may be surprised what this little black and white 2-D bar code can do for your business.
This article was written by Diva Toolbox contributor, Mary Ann McQueen Butcher. Get more great advice from Mary Ann by visiting her website at http://www.Authentic-PR.com