QR code (Quick Response Code) is the trademark for a type of matrix barcode first designed for the automotive industry in Japan. It is machine-readable and contains information about the item to which it is attached.
The QR Code system became popular outside the automotive industry due to its fast readability and for having a greater storage capacity compared to existing standard UPC barcodes. The applications for QR Codes include product tracking, item identification, time tracking, document management, and general marketing.
A QR code consists of black modules (square dots) arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device like a mobile or tablet. QR codes have become common in consumer advertising. Typically, a smartphone is used as a QR code scanner, displaying the code and converting it to some useful form (such as a standard URL for a website, thereby obviating the need for a user to type it into a web browser). The QR code has become popular direct marketing strategy by being much easier than manually typing in a URL.
| Do give an incentive for you customers to scan. But it needs to be so good that they grab their phone and scan the code. Make sure that you are giving them information or an offer that they will not want to miss. QR codes are an excellent way for your customers to connect with you. | Don’t just assume that someone will scan the code out of curiosity. It is up to you to create a campaign with the QR code front and center. Make the offer irresistible. |
|
Do create a mobile friendly site. The customer will need a smartphone or tablet to scan the QR Code. Make sure that it goes directly to the offer or incentive. Don’t waste this opportunity! |
Don’t link to information that can easily be found elsewhere. Make the best use of a QR Code and use it for something exclusive. Don’t just link it to your Facebook page. |
|
Do include a clear call-to-action with a QR Code. Let the customer know what will happen when they scan the QR Code, for example “scan to receive a free sample” or “scan to watch a video”. |
Don’t make it hard to scan. The QR Code should be at least an inch square, and clearly printed and in an accessible position. Postcards are great for this.
|
|
Do test it. Test for functionality, quality and mobile compatibility before you send it out. Remember the customer is on a mobile, so make it convenient to use. |
Don’t waste it. Use it to track your customer activity and what they respond to, what works best, and give you critical information to make your campaign better. |
Use QR Codes to create an efficient call-to-action for your marketing campaign. We can certainly help you create a perfect Direct Mail design using QR Codes. Just give us a call to discuss your needs with one of our sales representatives!{{cta(‘5b0631cc-d9ec-4426-acac-a2434433c2cd’,’justifycenter’)}}