Everyone has seen a QR code (quick response) but many people still do not know what they mean or how to use them.  They look like a square barcode (see photo) and what they do is act as a link from printed materials to the web.  QR codes enable the reader to move directly to a website to gain more information, enter a contest, be directed to an advertisement, or be linked to any form of internet data.   These QR codes can only be read with a Smart Phone equipped with a QR code reader app.  Most of the apps are free.   

Here is one example of how QR codes work:  Not long ago, I purchased a product from an auto parts store to refill the coolant in my car. The clerk asked if I had ever used this product before and when I said “no”, handed me a brochure with some simple instructions.  Along with the instructions was a QR code.  I scanned the code with my smart phone and a short video popped up that provided very clear direction on how to use the product.  The video offered a clear, more instructive series of steps to follow that were far easier to use than what appeared on the brochure (or on the product label). From print to video in a few seconds flat!

Here are 3 examples of ways to use QR Codes in print

1)                 1) Restaurant marketing  Use a code to distribute a complete menu.  A different way to deliver a menu is to print a brochure, flyer or even a business card with a QR code that directs the reader to a complete menu on-line.  The rest of the flyer could highlight featured entrees, contain advertising about the quality of the food and perhaps a coupon offer to encourage someone to try the restaurant.

2)  Build an e-mail list, you can use a QR code that can be linked to a contest, promotion or a link  for more information.   The QR code can take the reader to a screen (or landing page) that requests information such as name, e-mail, address, etc that can be used to build up a list of potential customers.

3) Catalog printing- A well-known catalog company has started adding QR codes beside the product shots. This is a great way to deliver more information about the product.  The best part is that the use of codes allowed the retailer to reduce the number of pages in their catalog thereby saving money on both the print and mailing costs.   

These examples are just a short list of what can be done with printed QR codes.  Just think about all the possibilities that can help your marketing efforts.  Want someone to visit the website that you’ve spent a fortune creating?  Add a QR code to your business card and make it easier for a potential client to get to your site (but don’t forget to print the URL address as well for those people that still don’t have a smart phone).    QR codes can be added to just about any of your existing materials, whether you are printing flyers, brochures, direct mail pieces, in-store signage, or full size billboards.

So, how do you get a QR code?  It is very easy and there are many sites that provide a unique code for free. Some of the popular websites that generate codes are Kaywa.com, Qurify.com and Delivr.com.  Bottom line, a QR code can help you deliver a complete marketing message and helps get your prospects from your printed page to all of the other media you are building on the internet. 

For more information about how QR codes can help you build your business, contact us for a free consultation We want to help you build your business.