# Cracking the QR Code

- Link: https://chatterblast.com/blog/cracking-the-qr-code/
- Published: 2010-04-22T20:15:36-04:00
- Author: Matthew Ray

[QR (quick response) codes](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code) are popping up
everywhere: on your subway platform, in your glossy magazine, on your soda bottle.
What’s next…in your underwear? Yes, probably! Just because these little devils are
breeding, doesn’t mean people know what they are, or more importantly, how to use
them.

![qr](https://chatterblast.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/qr.png)

## What is a QR Code?

Basically, a QR code is a barcode on steroids. Originally used to track auto parts,
they’re now used for encoding lots of information on a two-dimensional space such
as the pages of magazines, posters, TV screens and even websites.

## Big whoop! What can I do with QR codes?

QR codes are tailor-made for linking to content on smartphones. Uses include magazine
advertisements that link to websites, additional product information, links to video
clips and quick on-the-spot surveys.

When it comes to out-of-the-box ideas, our favorite real-world use of QR codes is
by the[Detroit Red Wings](http://redwings.nhl.com/). Using their Jumbotron screen,
the Wings instructed fans to turn to the page in their program that had the QR code.
After a quick scan the fans got a funny [YouTube video, ‘Kronwalled.](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fjeeavlf4n4&feature=player_embedded)”
According to the Wings, people watching the video through a mobile device watched
it from beginning to end 22% of the time, far exceeding their expectations. It was
so buzzy, they plan to integrate more QR code placements in their traditional ads.

 1. **QR codes on business cards.** Rather than overload a business card with all of
    your contact info you could include the bare minimum for reaching [casino](http://www.svenskkasinon.com/)
    you, then create a code that leads people to your Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, 
    YouTube, Flickr, or social media account du jour!
 2. **Scavenger hunts. **Everyone on the planet wants to make a QRC scavenger hunt.
    It’s a great idea…probably because scavenger hunts are fun and engaging, Just remember
    they need an action or goal and are generally a lot easier to write about than 
    to administer.
 3. **Labeling.** “Who makes this lovely wine?” Scan the QR code and find out more 
    than just the vineyard name. “Where did you buy this shirt?” Scan the QR code on
    the tag and learn about the designer and nearest retailer.
 4. **Retail.** Few retail businesses are open 24/7. Don”t disappoint potential customers
    after you”ve left for the day. Create a “Shop Now” QR code and put it in your storefront
    window. One scan and you”ve turned a passerby into a lead who might share a lot
    more of their contact information with you. Also, imagine QR codes next to products
    that offer value-added information. For example, hardware stores could link to 
    how-to videos of how to use specific tools.
 5. **Promotions, discounts and giveaways.** If you want to encourage patronage from
    the iPhone and Android set, create discounts that are specific to QR codes. Run
    these codes in advertisements or post them throughout your store.
 6. **F****ollow The QR code to Facebook.** You can create mobile-friendly landing 
    pages with Facebook Like buttons. The name of the game is engagement, so a “Like”
    can create a long-term marketing opportunity.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to use QR codes to connect and engage your
audience. According to MGH, [72% of smartphone users are likely to recall an ad featuring a QR code](http://mghus.com/blog/2011/03/23/breaking-qr-code-stats-revealed/).
There”s a certain amount of fun and surprise with QR codes, so take advantage of
that “what”s behind door number one” mentality.

![graph](https://chatterblast.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/graph.png)

Has the QR code taken hold of the American consumer? We think there is potential
if executed correctly. Have you used QR codes in your marketing and communications?
If so, how are you using them, and what results have you seen?