QR Codes: Usefulness and Safety

A while back I devoted a blog entry on QR codes and how to create them and how different industries can use them. Since then, I’ve noticed many more companies in the US – both small and large companies – have been using QR codes. You’ll find several QR codes on advertisements in magazines, check out the ads in the Sunday newspapers and you’ll see QR codes, you’ll even find them on the packaging of some products at the grocery stores. I’m even starting to see them on some direct mail pieces arriving at my home.

So are they useful?

The answer is “yes” but a qualified yes. Here’s what I mean. Include a brief message next to or below your QR code such as:

• “Scan for additional savings”
• “Scan to connect directly with us”
• “Scan to view trailer”
• “Scan for product demonstration”
• “Scan for virtual tour”

Scan to connect
with Meyer Marketing
Intelligence, Inc.

Now you might be asking, why would I want or need to provide a QR code?

My response would be, why wouldn’t you do so? With at least 1 in 4 US adults nationwide owning a smartphone, QR codes now become another communication tool with customers and potential customers. It provides others with an easy and fast way to connect with you or learn about your products and services or even receive additional promotions.

Here are a few examples how businesses in specific industries might want to use a QR code:

• Realtors: provide a virtual tour of one of your houses or buildings listed
• Schools: provide a virtual tour of your school or promotion video for prospective students and their parents
• Nonprofits: provide a link on your direct mail or other collateral to a  “Donate Now” page on your web site for donors to give online
• Event planner: provide the event schedule or exhibit floor map/listing of exhibitors or listing or promotion video of previous events
• Publications: provide your special insert schedule or readership demographics
• Manufacturer: provide a product demonstration
• Any business: provide a 30-second visual business card introducing yourself or a direct connection to your mobile web site or a video of a couple of testimonials

As you can see, the possibilities are endless!

Now, on to the issue of safety in the cyber world. To avoid malware or viruses from infecting your smartphone here is one easy rule to remember:

Do not scan a QR code if you do not recognize the company or business.

Aside from that rule, use your judgement as you do on your computer and if it seems suspicious, do not scan the code.

Are you using QR codes in your business? If so, I would like to hear how you are using these codes.

Diana Meyer
President, Meyer Marketing Intelligence
661.254.6141
dmeyer@meyermktg.com