QR Code Basics

Just what are these black symbols?

They've been spotted on everything from buildings to business cards, wine bottles to detergent bottles, T-shirts to tattoos to Times Square. What are these strange looking black symbols that are appearing everywhere?

They are called QR codes – and are fast becoming a powerful force in marketing, thanks to the recent explosion of smartphones among consumers.

What is a QR Code?
A QR (Quick Response) Code is a 2D barcode that can be read by special software on a camera phone, usually as a free download on a smart phone. Depending on your QR code reader, once scanned you'll be redirected to a web page, call a phone number, see a message or video, receive a discount, or other action. The apps required to scan and read QR codes are free and have been developed to work with iPhone, Blackberry and Android phones.

What are some ways to use QR codes?
The information embedded in these codes can cover a wide variety of information, allowing marketers to really get creative. Some uses are:

• Video Promotions: This could include video product demonstrations, directions for assembling a product such as furniture, real estate home tours, movie trailers, music video, customer testimonials, and any other video message you can imagine.

• Maps and directions: Also known as geo-location, what better way to give directions to your business, event, etc.? Users simply scan the code and the directions are in their phone, ready to go.

• Social media and location-based services check-ins. Some of these sites also offer the option for you to include a special offer or deal to those who check in at your business.

• Get Likes and Follows: The name of the game is engagement, so a like or follow can create a long-term marketing opportunity. You can create mobile-friendly landing pages with Facebook like buttons or lead them to your Twitter page for a quick follow.

• Paypal for instant purchasing and donations.

• Extend brochure and packing information: Decrease or eliminate outdated marketing material by putting time-sensitive information into a QR code mobile landing page where it can easily be updated. You could also include a code to show more photos of your products or services.

• Business cards: Get them to scan code on your business card and your contact information is automatically stored in their phone.

• Get the phone ringing: QR codes can make a phone call. If you want to get the phones ringing at your business, you can create a code that will dial a predetermined number. QR codes can also generate SMS text messages.

• Point-of-Purchase displays: Since QR codes can lead to URLs, you can increase e-commerce sales by creating a code that will populate a shopping card with specific products. (Of course, you have to be sure that your e-commerce solution can handle that.)

• Conference signage: A code next to the name of the upcoming session would provide the full session description, speaker bios, and option to see if any seats are available and sign up for sessions.

• On invitations instead of RSVP cards: The code would take you to a mobile-friendly landing page where guests/attendees could RSVP instantly online. Remember, you could even include directions in a separate code.

• On cocktail napkins, table cards, etc.: The code could take networkers to a sponsor's site, allow easy signup and give sponsor a way to connect with people after the event.

• VIP access: Customers like feeling special. Create an intimacy with your customers by using QR codes to give them VIP access. This could include special discounts, contests or event information that can only be accessed by those special enough to get the special code.

The most important aspect of implementation of QR codes is that they are really a mobile gateway and should be treated as such. A QR code is not just another way to get people to visit your website. The can open a new line of customer engagement, give you a competitive advantage, and make you look innovative and cutting-edge.

Getting the most of our QR codes
One thing to remember: The QR code concept is still fairly new to the U.S. Before jumping into your QR code campaign, you might want to consider these tips that will help increase the ROI of your marketing efforts.

• Consumers are going to access your code content on their mobile phone. If your code is going to take them to a website, be sure it's smartphone friendly.

• Help people utilize your QR codes by telling them about free code reader apps that are available for them to download on their phones. Consumers love the word "free," so highlight that they can take advantage of this cool technology without spending any money.

Simply put, QR codes allow companies to engage their current and potential customers. Now is the time to thoughtfully build you next campaign to include QR codes. Southeastern Printing has the experts on staff who can help you plan your strategy and produce incredible printed pieces. Contact us today and let's get started.