ABOUT QR CODES
QR codes everywhere in the US and are now beginning to be seen here in the UK— in advertising, magazines, posters, etc. They offer exciting opportunities for delivering information quickly to people that are mobile. They also provide a quick and easy way to do more with a single marketing channel.
It is however important to consider this: QR codes are no different than other direct marketing tools in that you must build a strategy and plan for testing, tracking and measuring results. Start with a strategy that answers the question, “What do I want to achieve with a QR code and how do I get there?”
Audience
Who do you want to target with a QR code? Is the audience you’re targeting more or less likely to have access to a smartphone with a QR code reader? If they’re more likely, are they likely to respond? What’s the best way to reach your audience and what potential issues could they have with QR codes?
Purpose
What is the intended purpose of your QR code? There are many possibilities; the only way to ensure success is to start with a good plan. The plan will no doubt change but it needs to begin somewhere. Where do you want to take your customer to? What’s the action you want to be taken? Do you intend to use QR codes to enhance your company’s customer service? Provide new or time-sensitive information? Are you trying to engage your customers with a video or some other media type? Are you looking to build social media interaction and take them to a facebook page or twitter?
Production
As with other all direct marketing tools, there are many behind-the-scenes considerations for QR codes. Is the qr code large enough? QR codes can be various sizes and used in a number of places, but keep in mind that some older mobile phones don’t focus as well on smaller objects. Think of it as a phone number, the smaller it is the less likely people will see it.
Is there enough white space? There are specific requirements regarding white space that must be followed. Specifically, QR codes have three positioning elements and an alignment element. This is where our experts will be able to help ensure your QR code is up to scratch.
Is the QR code low density? QR codes hold thousands of alphanumeric characters. The less dense the code, the more visually appealing it is. It also will fit into smaller spaces and is more easily scanable. If possible use a URL shortner such as the ones we provide.
Is the website that the QR code links to formatted for mobile display? Is it mobile friendly?
“Lots of people are buying using a smartphone, but not enough businesses have mobile-enabled websites. It’s the biggest barrier today for m-commerce, and businesses are losing out to those competitors with mobile-optimised websites. Only 17% of the businesses that we work with today have a mobile-optimised website.
Source: Ian Carrington, Google’s mobile advertising sales director for northern and central Europe.Do you know what platforms to use and which to avoid? Consult with our experts who are experienced or if you want to go it alone, research and use reputable online tools.
Measurement
Some excited marketers mistakenly begin implementing QR codes but without thinking about tracking and measuring the results. As with other direct marketing, the only way to know if your goals are being met is to track everything.
We track- Impressions, Snaps, Snap through rate, Converisons, Conversion rate, Geo locations, Browser type,
QR codes are exciting and the possibilities endless. Do the proper planning to ensure that you can realize return on marketing investment each time you use them.
Speak to our team at http:www.qrmediacodes.com or call 01442 384 144.
