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Measurable Marketing With QR Codes: Connect Offline and Online Marketing

Measurable Marketing With QR Codes | Madison+Main Blog

Written by: Lauren McKinney

In today’s digital age, our marketing experts here at Madison+Main know the line between offline and online marketing is becoming increasingly blurred. The rise of smartphones and the ease of connectivity have made way for innovative strategies that bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds. One game-changing tool that has shifted the marketing landscape drastically is the QR code – these seemingly simple black-and-white patterns are revolutionizing the way businesses connect with their target audience, enabling measurable marketing like never before.

The QR Code Renaissance: What’s Old is New Again

QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, have been around for decades. Initially designed for automotive applications in Japan, these codes have evolved into a powerful marketing tool. In recent years, they’ve experienced a renaissance, largely due to their ability to seamlessly link the offline and online presence of businesses and maximize marketing. Forbes notes QR codes serve a vital role for companies as they “collect first-party data, something that is extremely important as marketing giants like Google move away from third-party data.”

Crack the Code: How QR Works for You

At a glance, a QR code might appear as a random assortment of pixels, but it’s a gateway to a wealth of information. By scanning your QR code with a smartphone’s camera, users can instantly access your business website, videos, social media profiles, and more. This provides marketers with a direct and immediate means of engaging consumers.

The Versatility of QR Codes in Marketing

The applications of QR codes in marketing are as diverse as they are innovative. Madison+Main leverages QR codes to connect offline and online marketing for our clients in a variety of ways! 

Here are a few we’re excited about:

  • Product Information: Placing QR codes on product packaging allows consumers to access detailed information, reviews, and demonstrations, influencing their purchasing decisions.
  • Print Advertisements: Magazines, brochures, and flyers become interactive when embedded with QR codes, leading readers to exclusive online content or special offers.
  • Event Promotion: QR codes on event posters or tickets lead attendees to event schedules, speaker profiles, and registration portals.
  • In-Store Engagement: Retailers use QR codes to offer discounts, promote loyalty programs, and gather customer feedback.
  • Restaurant Menus: QR codes on menus provide diners with nutritional information, allergen details, and even the option to place orders online. (Though the Maidson+Main-iacs agree, when it comes to the menu itself, we’d prefer the real thing!)

    Measuring Success: Analytics and Insights

    One of the most significant advantages of using QR codes in marketing is the ability to measure their effectiveness accurately and easily. Marketers can track metrics such as the number of scans, geographic locations of scans, and time of day scans occurred. This data provides valuable insights into consumer behavior, enabling businesses to refine their strategies and tailor their offerings to better suit their audience.

    Best Practices for QR Code Marketing

    To make the most of your QR code marketing, consider the following expert tips:

    • Provide Value: Ensure that the content behind the QR code adds value to the user’s experience. (However, we won’t tell if you choose to link to Rick Astley’s timeless video– value is relative.)
    • Mobile-Friendly Landing Pages: Ensure that the landing page accessed via the QR code is optimized for mobile devices.
    • Clear Call to Action: Clearly communicate what users can expect when scanning the QR code. 
    • Strategic Placement: Place QR codes where they’ll receive maximum visibility and engagement.
    • Regular Updates: Keep the linked content up-to-date and relevant to maintain user interest.

      Conclusions on QR:

      QR codes have breathed new life into the realm of marketing, offering an exciting way to bridge the gap between offline and online engagement. By seamlessly connecting a physical prompt with digital experiences, businesses can create interactive, measurable, and engaging campaigns that resonate with modern consumers. Embrace the QR code revolution and unlock a world of possibilities for your marketing endeavors.

      Ready to crack the code on effective QR use and make the most of your marketing? Get in touch with Madison+Main to put the experts on your side in creating seamless advertising, from code to screen! Give us a call at (877) 623-6246! #BoldBrandsWin