Puzzled?

Have you noticed these odd jigsaw-puzzle squares lately? We're seeing them more frequently in the US, and once you start looking for them, you'll be surprised how many of them are found on everyday objects now!

What are they? They're actually a type of bar code, sometimes called a 2D Bar Code, but usually referred to as a "QR Code". "QR" stands for "quick response". So...quick response to what? And...what does any of it have to do with marketing? Well...here's a "what if" situation.

What if...you were driving around neighborhoods looking for a house? Let's say you notice an interesting house with a "For Sale" sign in the front yard. And...let's say there's a QR Code printed on the sign underneath the agent's name and phone number. So...now you take out your smart phone, and using the easy, free app you've already downloaded, you snap a picture of the QR Code. (Just google QR reader to find a free app - it's that easy!)

Now the magic begins! While you're looking at your phone, a video pops up that tours you through the house, showing you features right there on the spot! Or maybe the realtor's website pops up with a slide show and all the details like square footage and amenities. And...maybe there's an exclusive offer that you can only access via the QR Code.

Wouldn't you think that was pretty cool?

What if you were the real estate agent? Wouldn't you love to be able to get all those juicy details in front of your prospects like that? Or what if you sell cupcakes? How about being able to put a QR Code on the box that leads to a video or website describing your cookies, also - and maybe a coupon for a customer to use for their next purchase?! What about QR Codes by menu items to show you nutritional info, or on clothing hang tags to show you fabric care or companion accessories?

They add no cost whatsoever to your printed pieces. They cost nothing to create and nothing to read. That's right - nothing! The value they add, however, is priceless because it allows you to market and enhance your product information any place at any time, simply by having included it.

QR Codes allow quick response that goes both ways. If someone wants information about your product, they can get it immediately. If you want to know more about the prospect who's looking at your product, analytics can tell you what they're looking for. It's a win-win!

That's not so puzzling, is it?!

Mary Beth Smith

for The AG Marketing Companion

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We're always ready to help you put together a campaign using QR Codes and other cool new technologies. When you're ready, contact Sherry Perry at 214-363-1101 or sperry@alphagraphics.com