QR Codes are quickly becoming a new means for companies, schools and organizations to advertise and provide information. So we wanted to explain what QR Codes are and how they can be used in conjunction with promotional products.
What are QR Codes?
QR (Quick Response) codes are printed two-dimensional bar codes that are encoded with text, URL or other data that is obtained through scanning with a smartphone. QR codes were originally developed by a Toyota subsidiary in 1994 for the purpose of tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing. With the ability to scan the barcodes with smartphones (phones either come with this software or the software can be downloaded for free on the internet), QR codes can direct users to a website, video, or simple text that be continuosly changed and updated at any time. Barcode designs are free to own and create, making them yours forever.
QR barcode generators are available online, where after entering simply data, your code is produced. The codes are small in size and can be printed on anything. Already popular in Japan, QR codes are gaining attention in the United States, Europe and Canada. Organizations use QR code technology for marketing/advertising, loyalty points programs, inform and engage in real-time.
With the explosive growth of smartphones, the use of QR codes will continue to grow and evolve.
How Promotional Products Can Be Used With QR Codes
QR codes can be printed on paper or any other type of surface. One way to get extended life out of a QR code campaign is to have the code printed on a tangible, longlasting and useful promotional product. QR codes can be printed on everything from folders, magnets, bags, coolers, luggage tags and much, much more. Here are some ideas to incorporate QR codes into marketing campaigns.
Ideas - College Market
Since college students are heavy users of smartphones and are always up on the latest technology, QR code marketing is a perfect fit for this audience. Here are a couple of ideas.
- Have a QR code printed on a folder given at a open house that goes to a site that shows a promotional video.
- Freshman Orientation has a QR code on a microfiber cleaning cloth that is given out on the first day that links to a calendar of events for the week.
- The bookstore hands out a pizza cutter with a QR code that highlights current specials.
Ideas - Businesses
Businesses and organizations can make great use of QR codes to keep clients/prospects informed, including providing information on specials, pricing and events. Here are some sample ideas.
- A mortgage company provides a post-it note with a QR code that shows the latest rates.
- A restaurant provides a magnet with a QR code that highlights upcoming specials.
- A business attending a tradeshow hands out a jotter that has the QR code that would link back to their website for the user to learn more about the company.
There are numerous ways that QR codes can and will be used as the growth of this technology continues to grow. So if you want to be seen as a leader and be able to provide information to users in real-time, consider incorporating QR codes into your next marketing campaign.
Special thanks to Jason Stromberg (jrs@firstedgesolutions.com) from First Edge Solutions, an innovative printing company, who helped us with research on QR codes. If you are looking for printed paper products to take advantage of QR code technology, Jason and First Edge are a great resource.
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