What is a QR code and how can you use one for marketing?

A QR code is a “quick response” code.  They are easy to create (there are dozens of free tools available online).  And they simply drive people to a website or landing page using a QR Reader (a simple app available on any smart phone).

Our QR code is to the right.  Of course we customized it a bit to include an element from our logo (we couldn’t resist).

So if you haven’t done so already…. pull out your phone, download the app (search for “QR code reader”) and focus on the image to the right.  You’ll see that your phone will instantly take you to the www.imarketsmart.com website.

But the big question is… how can you use this neat technology?  Hmm… let’s start listing some ways.

1- Museums could post them near artwork so you can go to a web page to get a complete historical reference about a particular work of art.

2- Train stations could use them so people could download train schedules.

3- Exhibitors with trade show booths at conferences could use them so attendees could quickly and easily download their informational brochures (instead of filling up those goofy bags with brochures that end up in the trash).

4- Advertisers (print, tv, billboards, etc.) could use them so respondents can get to a website or landing page easily.

5- Direct mailers could do the same.

The options are endless.

Plus, at MarketSmart, we like to tie QR codes to our unique personalized URL engine.  That way, we could create (for instance) 10,000 unique landing pages tied to 10,000 QR codes.  Then we could send out 10,000 unique, personalized direct mailers to 10,000 prospects.  And, as respondents use their codes, we’d be able to track precisely who is using the code to get to your landing page…. even if the respondent doesn’t fill out a form.  You’d get notified the moment the log off.  Neat, huh?

If you have more ideas for QR codes, let me know.  I love ’em!