Tag: barcodes

 

Scan delivers 25 million copies of its software

Despite reports that QR codes are unpopular amongst consumers and are diminishing in popularity, Scan, leading barcode scanner makers, has announced that its scanning application of the same name have been downloaded 25 million times. The company is now offering version 2.0 of its software, which provides a number of new features that are meant to make consumers more interested in scanning QR codes and other barcodes. As in previous versions of the software, Scan touts simplicity as the best way to provide service to consumers.

Software allows consumers to scan various types of barcodes

The new version of Scan is simple to use; users only need to point their mobile device at a QR code or other barcode and the application will do the rest of the work. The scanner recognizes QR, UPC, EAN, and ISBN codes and is available for the iPad Mini and the iPhone 5. The software can even make use of a device’s flash to allow its camera to scan codes in the dark.

Platform can help businesses keep track of QR codes

Scan has been growing steadily for more than a year. The company was founded in 2011 and was able to raise more than $1.7 million in financing earlier this year. Scan provides numerous services based on QR codes, such as code generation for websites, business cards, and billboards. Businesses can use the Scan platform to keep track of the performance of the QR codes they use, allowing them to tweak the reach of their marketing campaigns to better suit the demographic that is using their codes the most.

QR codes growing in popularity as mobile commerce devices

Scan notes that it processes more than 27 million codes every month. This suggests that QR codes are much more popular than some might believe. The codes have been gaining momentum as a mobile commerce tool, which may be part of the reason why they have been seeing more use in recent months. Retailers, in particular, are showing interest in QR codes because of their potential use as a sales mechanism for mobile consumers.

They may look black and white, but you need to find the grey area to get the most out of them.

If you have been looking into mobile marketing or even if you simply own a smartphone, then the odds are that you will already have seen QR codes for the first time, and you may even have scanned a few to see where they lead.

These mobile barcodes are popping up in advertising, signage, and product packaging everywhere.
The reason is that QR codes can quickly, easily, and very inexpensively help you to better engage with your customers. These simple black and white squares can be the key to bridging the gap between an offline and online interaction with a consumer.

With a properly placed barcode, you’ll encourage an individual to scan to find out more about your company, brand, or product. Then, provided you offer the smartphone user something relevant that he or she considers to be worthwhile, then you’ll be able to create a call to action and achieve very positive conversion rates.

The trick is not to mistake QR codes for a simpler way to enter a URL into a mobile device.

Though QR codes are a way to allow a smartphone user to simply scan and be automatically directed to a link, it shouldn’t simply be a pathway to a website. Successful use of these barcodes is dependent on engaging the customer, not simply presenting a web presence.

The following are a few of the most vital points you should consider if you want QR codes to help your business grow:

• Make sure that they link to a page or site that is mobile compatible and optimized.

• If they are being used for a specific promotion, link the barcodes directly to a page about the item, event, or service being advertised.

• Give the consumer a reason to scan and pay attention by offering an exclusive deal, such as an offer, mobile discount coupon, or other opportunity. Offers to obtain something for free or to save money are the most successful use for QR codes.

• Make sure your contact information is available, including click-to-call and a feature to find the nearest location. Once the consumer is interested, you don’t want to discourage him or her by creating a struggle to find you!

• Provide relevant and useful information in step by step “how-tos” or even video instructions demonstrating how your product can be used.

QR codes can be implemented rapidly and without great expense. They can be worked into existing packaging, signage or marketing materials and, as long as you give consumers a reason to scan, can make a significant difference to your business.