Using QR Codes for business
The use of QR codes is wide-spread in Japan where it originated, and is rapidly gaining popularity in other parts of the world. Even in the US QR code usage can be seen on product packaging, in-store displays and magazine advertisements. The technology behind QR codes allow individuals to scan the square shaped barcode with a smart device and effortlessly enter the digital world. QR codes are still early in the user adoption curve, but because of their quick response capabilities businesses are jumping on-board to promote exclusive offers, digital contests/sweepstakes and in most cases to simply provide more information than can be illustrated in print.
QR codes are becoming prevalent in the advertising industry as the target audience of their brand clients are aligned with QR code users. The QR codes can link or can be connected to just any digital information, such as a web URL or application link. Using QR codes begins with creating the landing page where users will end up once they have scanned the QR code. It is often helpful to look backwards, and start from the end when conceptualizing how your business can leverage QR codes. Begin with your goal. Maybe it is to get users to sign-up for a contests, maybe it is to join you on Facebook or Twitter. Whatever it is, this is your final Call-to-Action, and should be considered first and foremost. Next, while working your way backwards, think about what information a consumer might need to convert into a Facebook Fan, or contest registrant. Include that information, which could be in the form of a video, on your landing page. The QR code landing page is where users will go immediately upon scanning, so make sure it is intuitive and doesn’t overload them with information. Once you have this page designed and coded to meet mobile device coding standards, you will need to host it online. This will provide you with the URL or web address needed to generate your QR code.
In order to use QR codes, there are a number of disciplines that need to be mastered, such as: mobile design, mobile coding, web hosting / IT. Or you can make it very easy on yourself, and leverage a platform like Scanlander, which requires no technical capabilities to launch a QR code campaign or digital document. Scanlander is a mobile landing page builder for QR code powered campaigns and interactive documents.