QR codes are mainstream in Japan, growing in Europe, and gaining traction in the U.S. The key to success is that they take advantage of the exploding popularity of a device that many of us always have close by - our smartphones. Nearly every year since 1994 has been hyped as the year that QR codes pierce the mainstream, but in 2011 the hubbub is finally reaching a fever pitch.

Using QRs

If you already have a QR reader installed on your phone simply scan the image at left; you should be directed to my mobile site. If you don't have a reader installed simply click here to download one found at Google. There are millions of readers available for free online.

Once installed on your mobile device scanning the code should either bring you directly to the site or populate with the url and give you options to "goto", "open in browser" etc.

Who Reads QR Codes

Surveys dating as far back as 2005 (and earlier) are available online; even current surveys show similar breakdown demographics of code scanners:

• 20 y/o and under 90% have used with a steady downward trend to 50+ y/o where roughly half have used.
• 71.3% scan magazine articles and ads, 14.5% maps, 12.9% food, and 12.3% posters and leaflets in stations.

Why They Scan:

• 81% of consumers scan for discounts and coupons
• 67% scan to navigate to a website rather than typing the URL
• 52% scan ads seeking more information
• 39% scan to win prizes

Use Them

Free Code generators are as common as free code readers. Once created test from various phones to verify scanning actually takes you to the desired location. I used numerous generators and over half were going to my desired url but via a re-direct.

Positioning - most anywhere you're printing your logo and contact info: print ads, specialty give-aways, posters. Any time your message space is limited expand your message by including a QR code to open a specific url with more info.

It's work to scan a barcode, so users have higher expectations as to what content they will find. Reward the user with discounts, exclusive content, or useful tips relevant to the code's context. Consider scenarios that leverage smartphone features (email, SMS, phone call, video, map, apps, etc.) to save the user time.

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