By definition QR-code stands for Quick Response code. They are similar to bar codes that are used by retailers to identify a product. The difference between a bar code and a QR-code is that QR-codes are 2 dimensional and can hold thousands of characters of information, where a bar code is linear, one-dimensional and can only hold up to 20 numerical digits. Because a QR-code can hold more information you can link to web pages, activate phone functions such as email, IM and SMS, and create simple ways to increase your social media reach.
How can you make QR-codes work for you?
You can use QR-codes on your print advertising, business cards, banners, online advertising, you can even use QR-codes on your website to provide a mobile map to your store location or coupons that they can load onto their phone from your site. If you want to provide a quick and easy way to deliver information to someone that has a smart phone such as a iPhone, Android and Blackberry, QR –codes are what you need. There are many QR-code Generators out there. Here are a few that we like to use:
http://qrcode.kaywa.com
Simple, quick QR-Code generator
http://keremerkan.net/qr-code-and-2d-code-generator/
This site provides more options for your QR code including type of file generated (PNG, PDF, TIFF, SVG and EPS) and the color of the QR code.
http://www.likify.net
This site specialized in QR codes that help you generate more Facebook “Likes” by generating a QR-code that takes the user to a mobile landing page to “like” your page. It also gives you an opportunity to offer that new “like” a coupon to use in your store. Statistics on the “Like” button are on their way.
http://goo.gl/
This site will not only shorten your long URL and generate a QR-code, but will also provide statistics on Clicks, Traffic Sources and Visitor profiles. You will need a Gmail login to access the analytical information.
http://myqr.co/
This site will shorten long URLs and generate QR-codes quickly and easily that provide tracking and reporting information. This site allows the user to make the QR-code password protected, if passing sensitive content such as contact information. It also allows you to customize your QR-code with colors.
QR-codes are a free and easy way for you to increase traffic to your website, social media outlets, provide directions to your showroom and so much more. We recommend that you take some time and check out these sites. As always, we are happy to assist in any way. Contact info@ausumcreative.comwith any questions.
