QR and AR

Quick tip...ensure the QR code imprint has been verified for readability at the supplier and that it will launch to the intended URL, size is important too. We've seen numerous cases when they weren't readable and it depends on the reader, we like Quickmark. Whats next (its already here)... AR Augmented Reality, its worth a Google and check out iButterfly while your at it, it will put a smile on your face.

Unless you live under a rock, it’s likely by now you’ve seen a QR code. They’re in magazines, newspapers, business cards, on t-shirts, store windows, billboards, and even ice cream containers.  As the latest trend in integrated marketing communications, QR codes bridge the gap between the online and offline world.

The implementation process is pretty simple:  marketers put a QR code on an object, i.e., magazine advertisement, and a user scans it with a smart phone.  In order to read the QR code, a phone must have a QR code reader, which can be downloaded free from an app store (Android devices are starting to come with QR code readers). The phone’s camera decodes the QR code and takes the appropriate action, e.g., directs to a mobile website.

QR codes are popping up everywhere and consumers are catching on to the concept.  Fifty-seven percent of Facebook users have scanned a QR code, according to a recent study. Most QR codes simply link to the company’s mobile website, but others are starting to think outside of the box. This is definitely a trend to watch, as it couples very well with mobile commerce

So what are some unique ways companies are using QR codes? Here are some I’ve seen lately:

• Skinny Cow started putting them on the tops of ice cream containers to direct consumers to enter a sweepstakes.
• AMC (movie theaters) has a great implementation for customers to scan QR codes on signs in the theater to order gift cards. 
•  L’Occitane incorporated a QR code into its recent direct mail campaign instructing recipients to scan the code to receive a coupon.

What’s next for QR codes? Perhaps companies will consider stronger calls to action, direct links to “Like” a Facebook page, buy product, or link to join a public messaging group. If you’re interested in making your own, try this QR code generator:http://qrcode.kaywa.com/.


Source:  Julia Cantor authors the blog All Things Social, which explores social media applications and trends, Boston social & tech events, and serves as training for new social media users.   Cantor is a Boston-based marketing communications specialist with a deep interest in all things social. You can “Friend,” “Follow” and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, FriendFeed, Citysearch, Plancast, Upcoming, Foursquare, Brazen Careerist, Foodspotting, WEGO Health, FoodBuzz, Dailybooth, and by the time you read this, likely a few more.

"Like" some of the latest innovations from the Trendwatching.com report

Consumers’ desire to broadcast their lives on social media is truly unabated (check out SOCIAL-LITES), and apps like Foursquare and Gowalla, or Facebook’s Like button are making it easier for people to tell their friends where they are, what they are doing, and what they are liking. But how about making it super-easy to bridge the offline physical world experience with the online? Check out some of these examples:

• In April 2011 at the AutoRAI Amsterdam Motorshow, car manufacturer Renault handed out RFID-equipped cards which could connect to Facebook accounts. Users could physically ‘like’ a car by swiping the card against its corresponding card-reader and the ‘like’ would then appear on their Facebook profile.

• Last August, Coca-Cola invited selected Israeli teenagers to the Coca-Cola Village - an activity based summer camp (YouTube video here). Upon entry they were given special RFID-enabled wristbands that they could swipe as they stopped by attractions (from swimming to massage), and would update their online Facebook status. The wristbands also allowed for automatic Facebook tagging of any photos taken.

• At the PIAS Nites music festival in Brussels in March 2011, attendees were given a card that linked to their Facebook account. They could connect on Facebook to new friends they met in person by swiping their cards together over a card reader, or take photos is a special booth that automatically updated their Facebook profile.