I've received enough questions about QR codes to warrant an article about how to use QR codes to generate more customers, ultimately leading to more revenue. Since there continues to be a wide range of questions, I am going to start right with the basics and expand from there.
To start this off, I'll need to explain what QR codes are. Basically, QR codes are 2 dimentional codes (like a barcode) that can be scanned using a mobile device to direct someone to anything with a web address (url). For example, a spa may want to create a video about a new service. The spa could use a QR code in a print ad to allow those with interest about the new service to watch the video using their mobile device. They would simply use a QR reader on their mobile device to take a picture of the QR code, which then takes them to the video (in this case).
Creating QR Codes
There are numerous places to create QR codes, which are typically free. My favorite is www.qrstuff.com. This site will allow you to create QR codes in different sizes and shapes to place on numerous places in the physical world. Common places that businesses use QR codes include brochures, flyers, ads, business cards, and more. Basically, your options are limitless.
QR Readers
In order to use a mobile device to take a picture of a QR code, you'll need a QR reader. Again, there are many readers that you can download as an app and most are free. I use QuickMark, but that is not the only QR reader available to you. To acquire a QR reader, simply go to your mobile marketplace to download an application and search for a 'QR reader'.
Uses of QR Codes
There are MANY uses of QR codes. Here are some of the uses that I've seen and used:
- Videos of services or products
- Your contact information
- Linking to a coupon
- An article or important paper
- Connection to your social media sites
- and more
As I said, the uses are left up to you imagination
The Future of QR Codes
It's my opinion that the future of QR codes is very big. Although they have been around for some time (starting in Japan), the explosion of mobile devices is pushing marketing into a completely new direction. As I've said before, those businesses that don't engage in the new face of marketing, such as mobile websites, social media and internet marketing will absolutely end up losing to their competition that does embrace these changes. QR codes is a basic step in that process.
