What Is A QR Code And Do I Need One?

June 4, 2020 // Chris Edwards

QR Codes gained popularity back in 2010 and then slowly disappeared over the years. In recent years, the QR code has made a comeback. Many small businesses as well as large corporations have started using QR Codes.

What is a QR Code?

QR Code Example
QR Code Example

A QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode, similar to what you will find in a store. The largest difference between QR codes and traditional barcodes is the ability to store much more data. A traditional barcode can store around 20 digits while a QR code can store upwards of 7,000 digits or 4,000 characters. Originally, QR codes were developed for the automotive industry and made their way into the marketing space. QR codes can be scanned and provide many different functions. For example, a QR code can be used to open a web page or add a contact to your phone. QR codes can even open and autoplay a video.

How To Create a QR Code

QR codes are simple to create and do not require any technical knowledge. QR codes can be created using an online QR code generator. Simply drop in the URL you want the QR code to lead over to and click generate. Check out our detailed article on how to make a QR code with simple to follow instructions.

How To Use QR codes For Marketing

Everyone uses a mobile phone making it an essential tool for businesses to connect with their customers. All smartphones are able to scan QR codes using an app. Recently, smartphone makers have added native QR code scanners into their phones.

Print Materials

Adding QR codes to your print advertising will allow you you to expand upon your materials. Add a QR code to take readers to a digital video or mobile-optimized website with purchase opportunities.

Billboards and Signage

Placing a QR code onto a billboard or onto signage is a great way to bridge the gap between the physical and digital world.

QR Code on a billboard for a special valentines day coupon
QR Code on a billboard for a special valentines day coupon

Use a QR code to lead people to a page that dives in deeper to your ad or offer a special discount. This is a great way to increase engagement with you sign or billboard.When using a QR code on sign or billboard, make sure to make it large enough to be scanned from someone at a distance. Billboards are often higher up in the air and will require a large enough QR code to be scanned. Signage can be smaller, however, make sure people can still scan them at a safe distance.

QR Codes on Business Cards

QR code on a business card with a scan me arrow
QR code on a business card with a scan me arrow

Putting a QR code on your business card is another great way for marketing. A QR code has the ability to contain all of your important contact details within in. This allows others to scan your card with their phone and add your contact details directly into their contacts.You can also use a QR code on your business card that leads to page telling someone more about your business or product.

What Else Can I Use A QR Code For?

There are many other ways you can use a QR code besides the examples above.QR codes are very versatile and can be a great way to engage with others in a digital world. Here are some other examples of ways to use a QR code.

  • Use QR Codes in Real Estate – Create a flyer or sign that takes someone on a virtual walk through
  • QR Codes at a Conference or Expo – Place a QR code onto your booth that takes someone to a demo of your product.
  • Social Media Follows – Create a QR code that opens up your social media page for a quick follow.

What are some other suggestions you have on using QR Codes?

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AUTHOR

Chris Edwards

Chris is Co-Owner of Data Driven Labs and a 17-year internet marketing expert in web design & development, SEO, digital marketing, and analytics. He often speaks at conferences around the world on everything WordPress and analytics.

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