What is a QR Code and how can I use QR Codes to market my business?
QR Codes are the latest and greatest thing in mobile marketing. Or are they?
For those that are unaware, QR Code stands for Quick Response Code.
A QR Code is essentially a 2 dimensional bar code that people can scan with their smart phone.
To call it the “latest” may be a mistake though.
QR Codes were actually created by Toyota subsidiary Denso Wave way back in 1994 to track vehicles during the manufacturing process. Denso still owns the patent on the technology, but has declined to exercise it.
The use of QR Codes for marketing purposes has been widespread in European countries for years, but is just now starting to gain traction in the U.S. Much of that traction can be attributed to the widespread use of smart phones, as most now ship with a pre-installed QR Code reader.
How does it work?
After scanning the QR Code users are usually taken to a mobile website, but a QR Code can also be used to send the user a text, send a vCard or open an email or text message program.
According to one study, during the month of June 2011, 14 million U.S. users scanned a QR code. That is a pretty large number, and if your business is not taking advantage of the growing QR Code usage trends, now is the time to get on board.
How can I use QR Codes to market my business?
Here at Pacer Design Studios we have been helping customers integrate QR Codes into their marketing strategies in some very simple, yet creative ways. Here are just a few ways:
On business cards – this will send users directly to a vCard or even to your mobile resume
On marketing materials – users are directed to mobile versions of the material they are reading. This is wonderful on brochures, flyers, programs, handouts, etc…
Product Packaging – can link to instructional videos or other additional information. This can help up-sell, or even reduce customer support traffic
On window posters – can email users event details, link to videos
Menus – restaurants are using QR Codes to up-sell products, link to photos of dishes and even to entree reviews
The preceding are just some examples of how Pacer Design Studios has helped customers take advantage of QR Codes and use them to increase revenue as well as customer awareness.
If you are interested in learning more about QR Codes, call us today at 724.709.7261 to setup your free consultation.