QR Codes: One Inch Squares of Magical Goodness by Kelci DeFrancesco, Bisque Imports There's a one-inch tool that's taking many industries by storm: and your business could (and should!) be next. Quick Response Codes, better known as QR Codes, are 1x1 inch links to interactive content, contact information and websites. Basically, if your information has a URL, you can link to it through a QR Code. So, what's so great about a link, you ask? Think of QR Codes like a bar code, where the price that shows up on the screen is like the information you want to link to, and the scanner is the smart phone that reads the information. This means that anyone with a cell phone (and a free QR Code reader app like Red Laser, which you can download from any App Store) can instantly access your company website, social networking page, or technique area with the click of a button. No more long web addresses to remember--your customers can scan the code and the url will instantly save to their phone! The greatest thing about QR Codes is really all in the name : quick response. Not only do they quickly access any information you want, but they get a response out of your customers. Instead of posting a sign in your studio that reads, "Find us on Facebook to stay updated on our special offers!" You can post a QR Code that says "Like us on Facebook today and receive a coupon for 10% off your next visit!" And that small distinction between suggesting an action and offering an immediate reaction can make all the difference. The opportunities are really endless for these great little codes. Why not post one near your paint section with a link to a Youtube technique video or a section of your site with suggested ideas? Or, create a sign that reads, "We hope you enjoyed your visit! Email us at (blank) with your comments and suggestions!" with a link to your email address. Your customers will love having the option to instantly respond to your postings. And, if they don't know how to use the codes, it's a great way to engage with them and show them you're really serious about staying current. Okay, so now that you realize how easy and awesome these codes can be, how do you create them? Our favorite is kaywa.com. Simply paste in the URL you want to link to, press "Generate!" and save the image to your computer for easy access on all your marketing materials. It's really that simple. We hope you'll take advantage of this awesome interactive tool, and we're looking forward to seeing it used more and more in the future! |