Quick Response or QR codes are two-dimensional computer generated images. These codes are the next and enhanced version to the traditional bar codes. These are loaded with much more information. QR codes can encode URLs, images, music and Japanese Kanji and Kana symbols. All you need to do is scan the QR code with the QR code reader installed in your smart phone. QR codes are frequently used in magazines ads and flyers from where people can scan them and access the information online.
How does a QR Code reader work?
To use a QR code you first need to have a smart phone with internet connection and a QR code reader installed. You can choose from any of the free QR code readers available for android, iPhone and Windows Phone like QR Droid, Scan and RedLaser respectively. Once you have your QR Code reader ready, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Place the QR code in a well lit area.
Step 2: Keep your phone camera over the QR code and scan it using the QR code reader app.
Step 3: The reader will read the code and direct you to the information linked with the code.
Using QR Codes for marketing
QR codes are a smart marketing tool. Add the code to your print ads, flyers or any other material. When a person scans the code, they will be directed to a web page where you can list out detailed information of your product and services. So while you attract attention of your customer with your copy, you can direct him to much more relevant information via QR code.
Benefits of using QR Codes
QR Codes, if used properly, can benefit your marketing campaign in many ways. They can:
- Provide detailed information to customers about product and services
- Can be used to send business cards, leaflets, etc.
- Can be used for registering new customers in programs
- Conduct surveys and take customer feedback
- Provide detailed information to customers about product and services
- Can be used to send business cards, leaflets, etc.
- Can be used for registering new customers in programs
- Conduct surveys and take customer feedback
- Direct customers to avail discount coupons
- Can direct people to your social media profile
- Increase website traffic
- It makes it easy for users to share your content online on social media platforms
Generate your own QR Code
There are a number of free as well as paid sites and apps, like QRStuff and Esponce, available to help you generate QR Codes. Once you have generated your Quick Response code you can download it and print it or use it as an image on your online page.
QR Codes – Best Practice
- Relevance: QR codes should serve a purpose. Use them only when you are sure why you want to use them and what you wish to achieve.
- Code Size: QR code should be at least 1 inch by 1 inch in size so that it can easily be scanned using smart phones.
- Colour Matters: The colours used are preferably black and white. Other colours can also be used keeping in mind that the dark and light areas should be in high contrast.
- Placement: Ensure that the QR code is placed where it is easily visible and convenient to scan.
- Linking: Link the QR code to a website that is mobile optimized; remember your user will be viewing this content on his mobile phone.
- Short URLs: Keep your URL short. The more data you store in your QR code, the smaller dots it will have. Thus making it difficult to scan. You can use URL shorteners like Tiny, Bitly or Google URL Shortener.
- Test Code: Once everything is done, remember to test the QR code using different smart phones.
- Track: QR code generators let you track the number of people who scanned your QR Code. Track the data, analyze it and use it to plan your future campaigns.
You can also hire professional assistance. There are a number of companies that help in generating QR codes and tracking and managing the service.
