What in the world is a QR Code?
When you pull up in a drive-through, the square shaped barcode is plastered on the window.
When you open a magazine, an advertiser is asking you to scan the code with your cell phone to receive coupons.
And now, they’re on the pages of the Indianapolis Recorder.
Why?
A QR Code or Quick Response Code was first designed for the automotive industry. However, thanks to its instant readability and large storage capacity, it has now become common in consumer advertising and packaging since over 35 percent of U.S. adults have smartphones. After downloading an application, smartphone users can easily scan the QR Code and receive information immediately.
Inside the Recorder, readers will find QR Codes that will offer more editorial content, videos featuring staff writers highlighting information from Restaurant Spotlights to discussing local news affecting African-Americans.
According to Nielsen/McKinsey’s NM Incite, online excitement about codes increased from .002 percent in June 2010 to 0.15 percent of all online conversation in March.
IMAN Cosmetics, the leader in cosmetics for women with skin of color, recently joined the crew of beauty brands who are introducing tech-savvy applications for smartphones with the new “Find Your Shade” QR code. The code will also be added to online advertising, promotional materials and select in-store collateral and signage for potential shoppers.
“As we see a major increase in online shopping, it is crucial we meet the demands of our tech-savvy consumers,” said Desiree Reid, general manager and senior VP of Brand Development for IMAN Cosmetics. “While we’re not the first beauty company to join the digital wave of QR codes, I’m confident the tool we have developed is incredibly useful and relevant to the modern day woman.”
QR Codes are even being used by Rock the Vote to encourage young people to register to vote. The organization has partnered with clothing companies Junk Food and Threads for Thought in a campaign developed by PromoJam that puts a QR Code on the front of a T-shirt. Scanning the code will take the user to a mobile page with inspirational and informative videos, social media pages, and Rock the Vote’s online voter registration tool.
To see how easy it is to use a QR Code, download the appropriate app for your smartphone and scan the code on the page.
How can a
QR Code be used?
– Installation instructions
– Coupons and special offers
– Customer feedback forms
– Free mp3 downloads
– Directions
– Recommendations for complimentary products
and services
