You’ve probably seen a few QR codes by now – those small black and white scannable squares that have started popping up in movie advertisements and magazines. You may have even used your smartphone’s QR reader to scan a code and be directed to a mobile website, app or coupon that relates to that specific QR code. Some airlines and sports teams are already using the QR code as a paperless ticket. With the proliferation of smartphones, more and more companies are taking note and embracing the QR code as a way to engage with their customers on their mobile phones.
Hamilton Chan, founder and CEO of our client Paperlinks, recently wrote a guest post for Mashable on the ways in which QR codes may shape the future of marketing. Chan calls these QR codes “jump points” to the Internet because they connect the visceral world with the Web. When you scan a QR code with your phone, the code works as a hyperlink to connect you to additional mobile content. Just imagine scanning a QR code on a piece of furniture you love at a restaurant and immediately linking to a virtual storefront where you can purchase the same chair. The potential for this in every aspect of business is enormous and the time is now. In fact, some are calling 2011 the year of the QR code.
Paperlinks iPhone app
Paperlinks currently offers QR-code enabled social stationery through its sister site, Paperspring. Users today can create paper holiday cards, event invitations and announcements that have a scannable QR code on the back. Recipients scan the invitation with the Paperlinks iPhone app to view additional photos, videos, RSVP, get directions, and more. Paperlinks is giving the recipient the best of both worlds: the keepsake birth announcement or wedding invitation and an additional layer of fun and practical interactive content. We’ve even used them for our own LaunchSquad holiday party invitations for this year’s company get-together.
On the heels of its launch in October, Paperlinks is already making waves and there’s no doubt that you’ll be hearing more about QR codes and Paperlinks in the year ahead!