A Coded Lifestyle - Bar Codes and QR Codes
Posted by Bruce Aristeo
Part Two of our 5-Part series on Mobile Marketing for SMB
In part one of our series we introduced the three primary features that make up a mobile marketing system - Text Messaging and SMS, QR Codes, and the Mobile Web. In part two we explored Text Messaging and SMS in depth. In this part, we will explore the ideas and practical uses of Bar and QR Codes.
Bar Codes and Imaging
Bar codes are images most of us are familiar with. If you have purchased a product at the local store, then you have seen the cashier scan the bar code across a code reader at the register. Bar codes contain simple, small amounts of information for the register.
QR CODES:
QR Codes, or Quick Response Codes, are two-dimensional bar codes. QR codes come in various sizes and are mostly seen in black and white. These two colors have the greatest differentiation, black being void of color and white consisting of all colors.
Originating in Japan’s auto industry, these codes were the first of a two-dimensional barcode series, and configured for manufacturing robots to immediately respond to the embedded data.
For the average Joe, the code’s information is accessed via an App installed on your camera enabled smartphone. The QR Code is imaged, and then the App decrypts and expands the embedded information. That information activates different functions within the phone such as giving directions via GPS, adding personal contact information, or offering discount coupons on your next purchase.
Scan Software
The best Apps I’ve tested are Qrafter, which only reads QR Codes, and their website has a QR code generator with many options. The other is RedLaser, which reads QR codes but is best for reading standard bar codes when checking product prices.
You can use QR Codes on or offline by:
- Adding them to your business cards, offering your contact information instantly
- Posting one in your shop window or website discounting a visitor’s first purchase
- Present announcements about a new product line and where to find it
- Visit a landing page on your website and track activity
- Post it on a Facebook Page sending the individual to your website
The possibilities are endless, so use your imagination and have fun finding the best use for your brand. Remember, customer engagement is key to having them come back for more!
In the next segment we will explore the differences between a mobile website and a mobile-enabled or mobile-friendly website. We will also introduce you to a new approach to the mobile web from a mobile marketing company located near West Chester, Pennsylvania who created a WordPress theme they call Smart Site. This site is meant to be viewed on desktop browsers, tablet browsers, and smartphone browsers. This can help reduce your design overhead for campaigns and reach larger audiences.
AB2BC.Net is an Philadelphia Internet Marketing firm that specializes in Branding, Social Media Marketing, Website Design, and advanced SEO techniques. Based in South Jersey, our expertise in Inbound Marketing spans from Boston to the District of Columbia.