Quick Response (QR) codes have become increasingly common in the world of marketing and advertising. By simply scanning a QR code with mobile devices or barcode scanning applications, smartphone users can enjoy quick and effortless access to a business’ website or landing page. According to comScore Data Mine, 20.1 million mobile phone owners in the United States used their devices to scan a QR code within a three-month period at the end of 2011 and this number is expected to grow substantially.
Businesses should take advantage of this innovative way to reach customers and direct them to Web pages, special offers and any other content. This article will explain the basics of QR codes and provide answers for creating your own.
How Do I Scan a QR Code? — In order to scan a QR code, your mobile device must have a code-reading application installed. The newer models of Android and BlackBerry smartphones come with this app pre-installed but iPhone and iPad users will have to download one of the free apps available to them. These free scanning apps include Barcode Scanner and ScanLife Barcode Reader. Once your phone has this scanning capability, simply open the app and use your camera to take a photo of the QR code. Instantaneously, your mobile device will be prompted to open a Web page, play a video or even place a call.
Where Should I Place My QR Code?— QR codes can be placed on products, packaging, billboards, business cards, in-store displays, print advertisements, brochures and anywhere else that your target audience will see them. Before QR codes, businesses could only print a link on these materials and hope that readers would write it down or remember to visit it later. Now, brands can lead readers to information quicker and more conveniently than ever before.
Where Should My Business’ QR Code Lead Users? — First, ask yourself what you think is most important or valuable to your audience. You may be looking to direct more people to follow you on Twitter, take part in a contest in Facebook or RSVP to an upcoming event. Using a QR code, you can lead people to any of these venues. For example, an art gallery may place a QR code next to a painting that directs visitors to an online description of that specific work. A retail store may include a QR code next to a product in their brochure that leads readers to the specific product page online. Legal professionals can include a QR code on business cards that directs mobile users to place a call for a free consultation. Please see the following examples of what you can include in your QR code:
- Product details
- Contact information
- Special offers
- Coupons
- Social media profiles
- Video or audio
How Do I Create a QR Code? — To make your own QR code, visit one of the many websites that generate free codes. Simply enter the information that you would like the code to link to, such as a phone number or URL, and the site will generate a QR code.
Some of the more popular websites for creating QR codes are qurify and QR Stuff.
For more information, please contact The Public Relations and Marketing Group at (631) 207-1057 or johnzaher@theprmg.com. You can also visit our blog for more valuable articles, advertising spotlights and more.