What is a QR Code?

Scan Me & Save A QR Code is a puzzle-like, two-dimensional bar code which stands for "Quick Response" and allows its contents to be decoded from a user’s smartphone. This is not a standard bar code, rather one that is made up of a pattern of squares and stores more information such as addresses, URLs, newspaper and magazine articles, videos, discount coupons, and other content. QR Codes are accessed through the use of a smartphone camera equipped with the correct reader application to scan the image of the QR code. Then, the phone’s browser launches and redirects to a programmed URL.

QR Codes are Highly Popular

QR Codes are highly popular with marketers because they are an immediate response mechanism, using mobile phones that are readily available to almost everyone. They are used in both commercial tracking applications and convenience-oriented applications. Customers are able to act instantly at the moment of interest, making it easy for them to purchase a product or participate in a customer incentive or promotion. Instant access reduces the risk of losing their attention as they take the time to write down a URL or wait to get to a computer.

Benefits of QR Codes

What are some of the benefits of using a QR Code? They are free to generate and do not cost extra to print as they are used like any other image. QR Codes are also highly trackable. When they are displayed on a billboard or sign, direct mail piece, or other advertisements that are not trackable, you finally have a way to measure the success of those campaigns based on how many people accessed the QR Code. QR Codes get users involved with the brand by acting on their interest and participating in the promotion, survey, blog community or wherever the QR Code leads them. Since the QR Code reader is on the user’s mobile phone, it gives them constant access to coupons, tickets, travel, shopping and more.

Where do Businesses Use QR Codes?

The opportunities for QR codes are endless! Here are a few ways companies are using QR Codes to boost business and customer interaction:

Marketing Pieces: Give customers quick access to promotions and your website by adding a QR Code to all direct mail, brochures, business cards, billboards, posters, advertising, and promotions.
Packaging: Place a QR code on the label or wrapping on your package. Include a coupon for the customer’s next purchase or a link to important product information on your web site.
Email and Website: Customers will access QR Codes when they are already using their computer. Offer a helpful article, coupon, or incentive only available for those using the QR Code from their email or the website.
Social Media: Link your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn sites and your company website with QR Codes.
Menus: Get nutritional information or review a restaurant’s menu with your mobile phone.
Tickets: Instantly check-in for your flight or check for delays; buy movie tickets or view trailers for the movie you’re about to see; buy tickets for your favorite band’s concert.

QR Codes are the Technology of the Future.

QR Codes are the technology of the future. Japan and Europe now have QR Codes everywhere, even on food packaging at the grocery store. Now that this technology has reached the United States, be one of the first to benefit from the curiosity of customers wondering what the QR Code is and what it means.