OnFocus

Scanning and use of QR codes is mainly used to supplement written or visual content in advertising and marketing. Avid QR scanners (like myself) often explore the interactive elements a company offers to entice a user to take the (approx 1 min) to open a scanning app and explore the QR code.

Linking to a contest, coupon or special offer is a successful way to promote and reinforce scanning. There needs to be insentive for a user to take the time to interact; making something cheaper (free is good), faster or more convenient is the way to actively grow a successful targeted QR campaign.

QR code generators like the one you can use at http://bit.ly (a URL shortening website that makes QR codes) allows you tracking and analytics for your link and QR code. These metrics will allow you to view what is working in your campaign and what isn't. Is your placement geographically working? Do people take the time to scan? Which days are you getting the best response? What is your hit-to-sales rate?

The power to turn any piece of 2D marketing into a powerful, interactive sales-tool is revitalizing print media. Once seeming to be obsolete as we began to digitize the world, QR codes have breathed new life into this static medium. The scanner immediately interacts with information that adds to or makes easier the transfer of knowledge.

Like the QR code, an Augmented Realty code (AR code) is scan able using a smart phone or AR reader. The video (above) illustrates augmented reality; the Lego box interacts with the reader and in-store display to show the product inside the box.

Tilting or moving the box causes the AR animation to zoom or turn in real-time, based on the users actions. Augmented Reality brings 3D and animation to a 2D media the way that QR codes enhance interaction. To learn more about AR Codes click here to visit our blog (facebook page) to see new and interesting videos, AR and QR uses, and progressive technologies.