For those of us struggling to keep up with social media and the
increasing momentum in mobile technologies, there is now yet
another technology to get to grips with; QR codes. At this point,
some of you will be nodding sagely whilst others will be bemused.
However, chances are you will all have seen a QR code, at least in
passing.
A QR code is a two-dimensional bar code that is readable by
software in camera phones. They appear as a pattern of black
squares on a white background and can be used to display text to a
user, add a contact to a device, join a wireless network or open a
web page in a smartphone’s web browser.
QR codes have been popular in Japan for a
while, but they are now starting to appear in the UK. If you
are public transport user, you may have noticed the popular free
newspaper Metro has started to include quick response codes to
direct smartphone users to their online content. Meanwhile
film-goers have been directed to mobile content to support the
release of 'The Mechanic' through QR codes prominently displayed in
display advertising.
Despite this being a new technology to get to
grips with, QR codes offer a real opportunity for businesses
to:
- Direct visitors to useful online tools or content that offers
real value such as a how-to video or white paper
- Encourage smartphone users to check-in to your Foursquare or
Facebook Places with the incentive of a discount on a purchase
- Promote your website and social media activities such as your
Facebook page or Twitter presence
QR codes are a new technology, but by offering
something unique and that has value to your audience, it is more
likely that the early adopters will spread the word for you and
show their friends and colleagues how to get QR reader software
installed on their phones. QR reader software is freely available
for all modern smartphones including Apple, Android, Blackberry,
Symbian and Windows 7 devices.
Obviously, you also need to be able to build
your QR codes. The good news is that there are plenty of websites
available to help you generate
a QR code (opens new window). Alternatively, you may already be
using services that create QR codes for you. For example, the web
address shortening service bit.ly (opens new window) automatically
creates a QR code for each shortcode that you make. Remember also
to add on tracking code to the end of any web addresses that
you promote so that you can track their use in your web analytics
software. So what are you waiting for, start your QR code campaign
today!
Authored by Ian
Cockayne