QR codes are growing in popularity, but like any shiny-new-bobble, not everyone has the same idea as to how to use a QR code. The following are examples I've seen around New York City, fast becoming QR capital. To learn where to get a QR codes, see an earlier post on QR codes and generators.
Few people know Microsoft offers its own version of a QR code
This is an example of Microcsoft's priority code, called the Microsoft Tag, seen in an Entertainment Weekly (Barnes and Noble Court Street, Brooklyn). Many companies have a priority code, but the differences are minimal. You can learn about it here at the Microsoft site
QR codes can be shown alongside social media symbols - but still let readers know what to expect
This Lion King poster on the Manhattan subway shows a QR with the other social media usual-suspects - Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. There are two issues - 1) there is no indicator about what the view would expect if they scan the QR code. 2) The code could have been used to lead the reader to a YouTube or Facebook page (I did not check but will next time I am on the tube). In short, always set the expectation of what the person would see with a scan...
Ready to learn more? Always let your view know what they should expect when they scan
This is an example of a call to action that should sit alongside a QR code, albeit still vague about what the person would be learning. Respecting someone's time means setting the expectation...
QR code on Bravo Bus Stop Ad
Media companies have caught pretty quick. This example from a midtown ad for Watch What Happens Live!....
Bravo Watch What Happens Live! (lower corner of ad)
... Says loud and clear what the visitor should see if they scan the code. Bravo! 🙂 (Compared to Lion King, see how each icon is called out to the left of the code)
New York Realtors and QR codes go splendidly together
Look in the lower right...see the QR code? It's perfect for letting visitors find out more images and details for a product or service with a lot of detail, such as a car or a home. New York City realtors like this one near Union Square have started using QR codes for luxury apartments and studios.
QR Code for American Airlines
Can you help your customers complete a task faster? American Airlines found a way with providing mobile boarding with QR Codes. This is at the Wall Street subway station for the 4 and 5 line.
But if you do choose to use a QR code., make sure you have an analytics tagging included in the URL used. Treat it like an ad campaign with a URL campaign builder to append the tag to the URL.
One more thing: Part of the QR codes appeal is being able to get things done quickly. And in New York City, isn't that always the way? 🙂
Where have you seen QR Codes in your town? Share a picture.
