Have you been seeing small funky boxes that include a kind of two-dimensional code? Labeled as a “QR code,” these unusual boxes have become the new generation of marketing in our world of ever-evolving technology. So what is it exactly? It’s a code that stores web-site addresses, contact information, phone numbers or other alphanumeric data. Mobile QR codes can be scanned by camera phones with reader software that will then decode that information and launch it in your phone’s browser. Think of it as a printed hyperlink, if you will. HotStuffMonkey has a more detailed overview.
These codes are ancient news in Japan… During my two week expedition two or three years ago, QR codes were certainly hard to miss. Already, they had completely saturated advertising throughout train and subway stations. There wasn’t a place you could go and not see that funny little box. They were found picking up a drink at the corner 7-11 convenient store, while getting a taste of Old Japan in Asakusa or just looking for dinner along the Dontonbori. Everywhere!
QR codes are also slowly encroaching on the U.S. market. FOX Movies used a QR code to promote the trailer for their film, The Happening. Ticketing and event group, Eventbrite, tested a QR code program this summer for concert registration. The Pet Shop Boys released their single, Integral, with a QR code linked to the criticism which fuels the song. And now, Google is using QR codes to build their local business directory. Google has currently boosted their local listings to over a million businesses from the few hundred thousand claimed during the summer. After sending QR code window stickers to its popular businesses, Google hopes to make its directory even bigger. Google’s goal is almost something along the lines of an interactive phone book (um, okay, think something like CitySearch). Widely used, there’s even the possibility of replacing phone books all together. Just think, that monster of a book that gets delivered to each household every year, no more… Talk about a green movement.
The service is free and seemingly only beneficial for businesses. If a business is closed, scanning the QR code could bring up regular store hours and any online shopping options – helping to retain customers. Scanning a QR code which then leads to a coupon could also give customers more reason to come in and browse. Remember the store but can’t remember the item you put on your wishlist? Perhaps that store’s QR code is linked to their site and your online account so you can find your wishlist item. The possibilities are endless. But, can Google jump-start this revolution?
What do you think? Are you up for using QR codes? Will this marketing method become effective? Hit that comment link!
1 comment
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Hennes en mauritz says:
March 15, 2011 at 5:30 pm (UTC -7 )
Now, via the internet coupons have introduced themselves into the mix. Instead of obtaining to take a coupon towards the shop, you uncover a coupon on line and copy down the “coupon code”. Then you visit an on the web retailer and enter the coupon code during the checkout process to claim your discount. Or, in the event you choose to shop at a physical shop, you’re able to unearth coupons web based and print them out to bring with you! As such, the options have been greatly expanded for the average coupon user.
Reasons Towards Google’s Eventual World Domination | Software News Daily says:
September 8, 2010 at 4:32 pm (UTC -7 )
[...] Google’s Local Business Directory: Sending out QR code window stickers to popular businesses, Google is hoping to build their local business directory. See the SND blog about Building Better Local Businesses with Google Bar Codes. [...]