What is a QR Code?

QR codes provide an easy way to store and transfer information.  They originated in Asia before spreading to Europe and beyond.  They are finally starting to gain popularity in the United States.  Businesses can use them for various reasons.

Most though, are using them to store website addresses.  Customers will need to use a special application on their smartphone to scan the QR code.  It will then direct them to a special website.  These codes can also be used for other purposes such as storing contact information in the phone or even liking the company's website on Facebook.

People may not want to go through the trouble of using QR codes unless you give them a good incentive to interact with them.  They will be enticed if you provide a great discount or exclusive content they cannot get elsewhere.

QR codes can be advertised in many different places.  You can set one up on the outside of your business.  You can even run them in newspapers or magazines.  It is important to note you may have problems when using QR codes on paper if it is folded in the middle of the code since users may have trouble scanning them properly.

Owners can even create their own custom QR codes which signify something about their business.  For example, if you had a golf equipment store, you could create a QR code that resembles a golf ball.  However, the more advanced the design and colors used to create the code, the more incompatible it may be with users' phones and applications.

As mentioned, QR codes are commonly used to send people to websites.  Just remember people will be browsing these websites on their phones since they have to use them to scan the code.  Make sure the site is designed specifically for mobile browsers so visitors can read the content and navigate around easily.

It is also important to ensure you test the QR code properly before running your campaign.  You do not want anything to go wrong and have customers experience problems.  For example, you would not want to send them to the wrong link.

There are plenty of ways businesses can market their products and services.  QR codes are quickly becoming a popular option.  They look much like bar codes and give customers and prospects something unique to interact with using their smartphones.  Just make sure your target market consists of people who frequently use this technology.