==== ==== Join the webinar introducing the revolutionary QR Code. Advertising QR Codes online has never been easier. facebook.com/QRCodeAdvertisingWebinar ==== ====
It seems like those small square shape symbols, are popping up everywhere. We are finding them in direct mail pieces, magazine advertisements, product labels, and even T-shirts. QR codes ( Quick Response Code) are two-dimensional barcodes and have been around for quite some time, they were originally used in the automotive manufacturing industry in Japan for tracking vehicle parts, since they have significantly greater storage than that of a traditional barcode. QR codes can be scanned by a smartphone through an application that is available as a free App, which scans and reads the code, opening the web browser on the devise to a specific URL, initiating any of a wide range of actions on the devise, such as launch a website, a Facebook page, view a coupon, a video, dial a phone number, capture contact info of the phone user, etc. These codes offer a unique way to connect the print component to online media, engaging your target audience in an interactive way and allowing for outstanding response tracking analysis. Ways to incorporate QR codes in to your marketing these codes can be placed just about anywhere, as long as the surface is relatively flat and the print method will ensure good quality reproduction. So depending on your marketing campaign, you can placed them on your actual product labels, books, signage, banners, T-shirts, mugs, flyers, to name just a few. In order for them to support your marketing efforts enhancing response, they must be properly incorporated in your marketing mix. Take a look at your marketing plan and find the place where QR codes can increase your target audience engagement in a productive way. Some examples of putting QR codes to good use, directing smartphone users to a URL such as: • A sign up page, • a catalog or price page • a video that shows a demo, testimonial, etc • a recording with testimonials, event schedules, etc. • an instant discount coupon • a contest A few good QR codes good practices: • Do some research and make sure your audience is at least 90% smartphone user • Tell the scanner what will happen when the code is scanned, such as "scan me for video demo". • Make the code at least 1" x 1" to make sure it can be read properly • Create a re-directed landing page that can be changed without changing the code • Consider a plan B for those people who are not (yet) Smartphone users