The first time I saw one of these crazy-looking images, the
only thing I could think was -- WEIRD. I thought there was no way that QR codes
would ever take off and become as popular as they have. Now, they are one of
the hottest trends in design.
What is a QR Code?
A QR Code, or Quick Response Code, is a computer-generated image code. Actually, it functions quite a bit like the UPC barcodes we see on products we pick up at the store. But instead of needing to wait in the checkout line, they are read by snapping a picture of it with one of many QR apps available for your smartphone.
How To Use Them
The information that can be stored in a QR code is incredibly diverse, making them a great, versatile tool to use in your marketing plan.
The majority of QR codes are currently being used in print media. They are an easy way to include additional information that might be too long or too large to include on a printed piece.
Remember when I told you that print media could easily be integrated into your online marketing? QR codes are a perfect tool for that!
For example, send out a printed invitation to your next workshop or seminar event. Add a QR code that leads directly to the workshop registration form on your website to make registration quick and easy for your guests! Or, on your estate planning brochure, add a QR linking directly to your estate planning practice area page on your website. This eliminates the need to write out an entire web URL and hope that the viewer remembers it or types it into their browser correctly.
With the rise of mobile technology, using a QR code on print marketing is also a convenient way to give your clients information they might want to have when they are on the go. Take a look below at the back of the invitation the IMS team sent out for an open house event last month. When viewers scan the QR code, they get a map to the office right on their smartphone!
QR codes are also starting to creep onto the Internet. Client Jerry Reif’s website is a great example of this. In the sidebar of his website, there is a QR code that, when scanned, sends all of his contact information to the client’s cell phone for easy reference. What a great idea!
If you still need to be convinced that QR codes are useful, remember this – they are free! QR codes can easily be generated for free from many websites. And it won’t cost your viewers a penny either – there is a wide selection of QR reading apps that are free to download on smartphones. Contact the IMS Team for more information.
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