QR Codes and You
October 23, 2011
What Is a QR Code?
QR is short for “quick response”. The code is simply a bar code that can be read by your smart phone and can store a variety of information – anything alphanumeric - including website addresses, text, phone numbers, and email addresses. QR codes are printed onto posters, coasters, brochures, or any type of print marketing and outreach piece. This enables smart phone users to take a picture of it with a QR code reader and then the phone will complete whatever action has been coded into it. This makes it easier for users to complete the call-to-action that you desire. The user must download an app to read the code – but there are many free apps available.
How Can You Use a QR Code?
Be creative! Anywhere you’d like someone to take an action from a print promotion you could use a QR code to help them to so. Here are some ideas…
- Registration for an event – Connect people to the registration page for an event, such as a fundraiser or an open house.
- Donations – Nonprofit organizations can help donors quickly click through to their donation page.
- Schedule a tour or lunch at your facility – Nursing homes, assisted living and retirement communities can link to a website contact pages or the email / phone number for admissions/marketing person encourage tours.
- Advocacy – Guide people directly to the page of your website set up to contact their legislature or representative.
- Link to your Facebook page, Twitter feed, or email newsletter sign-ups - Encourage people to continue to let you stay in communication with them.
How Can You Generate a QR Code?
QR codes can be generated for free online. You can do a simple online search for “qr code generator” or try a few of these sites:
http://www.qrstuff.com/
http://createqrcode.appspot.com/
http://onlineqrcodegenerator.com/
When Should You Use a QR Code?
Just like any other type of marketing, you need to keep your audience in mind. Is your audience likely to be using smart phones? Are you providing alternatives so that you don’t ostracize those who are not, or who have not yet caught on to QR codes? This is worth considering…since a recent report on QR codes by NPR called Few Consumers Are Cracking The QR Code advised:
“According to a recent study from digital analyst comScore, a measly 6 percent of mobile subscribers currently use the technology. That 6 percent tends to be male, white and wealthy.”
If you do use a QR code – make it worthwhile. Set reasonable expectations, make it fun, or save them time.