cracking the "QR Code"

How often did you see a rectangular matrix at the bottom of an advertisement?at the back of a business card? product tags and packaging? It may seem unusual at first, but more and more business and advertisers are utilizing such matrix or codes to provide their audience more informations about the business. Let me first start off by explaining what is QR Codes.

QR Codes is rectangular-shaped and two-dimensional bar codes that often contains URL which able to direct users to access informations provided within that code; which often known as ‘mobile tagging’.   The trend of having QR Codes placed on every print advertisement was initially started in Japan, their escalating popularity reach the United States and Europe along with the immense popularity of Smartphone and 3G networks.

The innovation of QR Codes has literally diminished the term “boundaries”, which it allows unlimited sharing of informations.  When people are passing through informations on the Internet, they are indirectly building a community on their own, for example QR Codes that direct the users to their facebook fan page. Not just building a community on their own, but they also stimulating a different mindset and acts as ‘call of action’ tool. In recent studies by Baltimore advertising agency MGH, they have found numerous reason why people use QR Codes, such as: 

• ·      Secure a coupon, deal or discount (53%),
• ·      Access additional information (52%);
• ·      Enter a sweepstakes (33%);
• ·      Sign up to receive more information (26%);
• ·      Access video (24%)

But the remaining question is, HOW EFFECTIVE THE QR CODE IS?

In the studies by Baltimore advertising agency MGH also found that approximately 72% of smart phone users have the tendency to recall an ad with QR Codes; how cool is that?! This study indicates that people are getting more and more interested and willing to participate in the interactions with ‘QR Coded’ advertisements that signal other additional benefits like deals, coupons, and social media interactions. (further studies: MGH,Inc QR Codes survey results)

It may seem as a potential powerful tool for marketers, but bear in mind that not everyone is aware of QR Codes, quite heartbreaking actually, ... It is such a great technology innovation.

Have you ever try QR Codes? What do you think? Does it have the potential to survive or will it eventually be dead?

Leave your comments below, and share your experience with QR Codes!