How would you like a potential customer to take a picture and have their phone automatically call you? Or perhaps you would prefer their phone go directly to your website. Maybe you would prefer their phone create a text message, locate your practice on Google Maps, or even add all your contact information automatically to their phone. Magic? Only the magic of the QR-Code.
The QR code is a matrix barcode readable by most of today’s smartphones by using a barcode scanning application and the phone’s camera. Originally developed back in 1997, the use of this code is beginning to explode with the proliferation of smartphones such as Google’s Android system, Apple’s iPhone, even most Blackberry’s.
The QR-Code’s uses in marketing are just starting to be explored. Imagine handing out your business card with the code printed on the back (as I do with mine) 1/2 inch by 1/2 inch. Anyone with a smartphone who scans my QR code will be instantly taken to my website. You can create a QR code than automatically generates full contact information for your business including name, address, phone, website, and even a short memo.
What can you do with a QR-Code for your business? How about using it for a promotion? Scan the code and their phone will send a text message wherever you want it entering them into your promotion. You could use the QR code to send people to a hidden web page where they could print a coupon. You can even use it for something as simple as helping them locate your business with the GPS in their phones without having to type your complete address. You can use the QR-code to link directly with your Facebook or Twitter page. You can use a QR-Code to allow patients/customers to check in with Foursquare or Yelp too. A QR-Code can be used to invite a number of people to an event by filling out calendar details for them.
Smartphone penetration in the US is set to overtake feature phones by the end of 2011. With 50% of all cell phones expected to be smartphones, the time is now to position your business to capitalize on that opportunity. The QR-Code is here and it’s fun. It is also useful. Consider using it in your marketing programs to help your potential customers connect easier with you. Here is a link to one of the many sites that generate QR-Codes.
