[caption id="attachment_212" align="alignright" width="246" caption="Scan Here for a Video on Mobile Marketing"]
[/caption]
The versatility of
QR codes makes it a beneficial feature for just about any marketing strategy, regardless the market or product being promoted. Here are just a few examples of how QR codes might be used:
Business cards – use it as a way to make getting your contact info on to someone’s phone even easier. When the person scans it, have it take them to a mobile landing page where they can see a photo, read a short bio, download a vCard, follow someone on LinkedIn, or even call and email right from the touch of a button
Posters – use it to drive people to something more dynamic and engaging (i.e. video, enter a contest, etc.), or a page that offers additional information
Menus – use it to allow restaurant goers to “see” different menu items, and even comment on their personal feelings about a particular menu item
Brochures – drive interested prospects and customers to a video introduction, or mobile landing page that contains more information about the product or service
PURLs – give people another means of accessing their personalized websites, from the convenience of their phones
Signs – similar to posters, use signs as a way to drive an audience to more dynamic content (i.e. video) or collect personal information that can be used to market to them later
10 Point Checklist
The following is a list of items you should consider when developing any QR code campaign. The idea is to accommodate as many of the 10 points as possible, to ensure the best possible QR code strategy.
1.
Scan-ability: Test the barcode to make sure it is scanable
2.
Uses URL shortener: URL shortener can allow for easier scanning
3.
Lists “how-to” instructions: Not everyone knows how to use mobile barcodes, so some indication should be given as to what it is or what to do with it
4.
URL or SMS for non-smartphones users: Only about 1/3 of mobile phones are smartphones in the U.S. although the number is growing fast. Listing the short URL or offering a number to text for the information lets you reach the other 2/3.
5.
Mobile optimized: Is the content (landing page) designed with phone screens or tablets in mind?
6.
Compelling content: Are you offering value to the customer?
7.
Clear call-to-action: You got me here, now what am I supposed to do? Don’t leave it to chance, tell us.
8.
Opt-in to collect customer data: You got me here, how can I stay involved? Maybe whitepapers, email newsletters, or VIP access can keep them involved. Give the consumer a place to leave their contact information.
9.
Social sharing: You got me here, how am I supposed to tell my friends? Have social sharing to the most popular networks built in to the landing page.
10.
Visually enhanced: Although not necessary, your mobile barcode could be built with an eye on design. Customized mobile barcodes have been shown to get better response (scan) rates.
[polldaddy poll=5535403]