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QR Code 101: Video ‘10 Reasons Why Free Quick Response (QR) Codes Will Bite Me In The Tush’

Dan Smigrod — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:04:46 +0000

March 7, 2011 – Atlanta, GA USA – If you are researching Quick Response (QR)* scan codes for your company, you probably have stumbled on free QR scan code generators on the web.

So, you may be asking yourself, why pay for QR codes when you can get them for free?

Using free scan codes may result in costly and embarrassing mistakes for you and your company. That’s why I wrote and produced this video: 10 Reasons Why Free QR Codes Will Bite Me In The Tush.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: ‘10 Reasons Why Free QR Codes Will Bite Me In The Tush’

Dynamic Versus Static Scan Codes – with paid scan codes, you can change the URL after the scan code has been generated. For example, if you are promoting a television series, you may want to change the URL that the scan code points to for this week’s teaser video. With free scan codes (jargon alert: “non-managed” or “direct code generation”), the information is contained in the scan code rather than pointing to a dynamic look-up table in a database that can easily be updated with the appropriate URL.
Early Production Deadlines – with paid scan codes, you can generate the code well before your content is ready. For example, if you have an early production deadline for a magazine ad, but the video you would like your scan code to point to will not be ready until after you need to provide your ad, then a paid scan code will make this – easier!
Correction – with paid scan codes, if someone makes a mistake regarding the URL that the scan code points to, you can easily make the correction: with free codes that’s very hard to do unless you get a Ph.D. in engineering and scan codes and chocolate chip cookies for the IT guy to generate free codes using referring links). If you are already a rocket scientist in scan code generation, then you already know not to use free code generators because they will bite you in the tush.
Analytics – with paid scan codes, you can get analytics, including: total scans; unique users; gender; income; age; handset operating system; and scan location (including interactive maps); to help you make decisions about the effectiveness of your print advertising, for example.
Free Codes May Be Harder To Scan – free scan codes may be harder to scan because they often are “dense” compared to paid scan codes (See a “dense” QR code example). That’s because with free scan codes, the URL (or other information) is contained within the scan code rather than simply pointing to a dynamic look-up table in a database for the appropriate URL or other action. [For more on how to make a free code less dense, please see "point 8" in my That's GREAT! article, Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid When Integrating Two Dimensional (2D) Codes (QR • EZcode • Tag) In Your U.S. Marketing Plans (8/2/10)]
Add Value – It’s essential to add value to the scanning engagement experience. With paid scan codes, you can change the URL after the scan code has been generated, which may be key to creating value for the scanning experience. You may not know what works best for you until after the scan code is in use. For example, if you using the scan code to point to a “how to assemble” this product video on YouTube and a better video is created, you can simply change the URL. (When you update a video on YouTube, it creates a new URL: you can’t use the previous video’s URL.) [For more on adding value with QR Codes, please see "point 1" in my That's GREAT! article, Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid When Integrating Two Dimensional (2D) Codes (QR • EZcode • Tag) In Your U.S. Marketing Plans (8/2/10)]
Printing – Can you afford to toss large printing press runs because the scan code points to a URL that needs to be updated? When you use paid scan codes, you can (easily) update the URL for the scan code rather than re-printing brochures; catalogs; direct mail pieces; signage; or any other physical thing that contains your scan code such as t-shirts or cupcakes. For example, if you are a Realtor using a scan code on your Home For Sale signs, you’ll want to change the URL that the scan code points to rather than printing up new signs for each Home For Sale sign.
Change – Stuff happens. With paid scan codes, you can easily deal with change. For example, if you are using scan codes for vCard contact info for a direct mail piece and the contact info changes after the mailing goes out, you can easily change the vCard info.
Large Batch of Scan Codes – With paid scan code platforms, it’s easier to generate a large batch of scan codes. If you need to create a large batch of scan codes with a free scan code generator, you – or your team – will likely be overwhelmed with the time-consuming code creation process. For example, while you may ultimately point to the same video, you may want to use different scan codes to know which magazine ads generated those scans.
Scan Code Management – With a paid scan code platform, it’s easier to label and keep track of all your scan codes. That’s important for making sure the correct scan code is used and for running scan code usage reports. For example, you may want to use different scan codes for different magazine ads and run a report that compares unique scan code usage by magazine. If you mark, track and manage campaign collateral for lead generation, you’ll want to mark, track and manage your scan code campaigns too.
Bonus: You’re A Hero – When you use a paid scan code platform, such as Scanbuy’s ScanLife Platform (GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code” = great), you will be a hero when senior management has requests that can only be accomplished with a paid scan code solution. GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example, generate free QR codes to practice with; and generate usage reports for these scan codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

For most businesses, using free scan code generators will cost the business more: either eating the cost of re-printing, the inability to use the most effective value-added experience; or the staff time consumed using an inefficient free tool for volume business use. If you recommend a free scan code generator, you will go from hero to zero the first time senior managements wants to – or must – make a change that can only be done with a paid scan code platform.

Plus, if you are using free scan codes for your company, you are also likely to repeat the same costly and embarrassing mistakes already made by major U.S. brands using scan codes and major media companies using scan codes. In addition, if you are using free scan code generators, it’s likely that you will fail to follow scan code best practices that could help your marketing campaign to be as effective as possible.

Hero to Zero! Using free QR codes will bite you in the tush!

Special Thanks

Scanbuy, Inc. Vice President, Business Development John Ellis for his insight.

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

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That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Top 10 Best QR Codes Uses in the U.S
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: (Video) ‘10 Reasons Free QR Codes Will Bite Me In The Tush’
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: (Video) What’s the Return on Investment (ROI) on QR Codes?
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: (Video) – 2011 is the Year of the Quick Response Code
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Multiple Choice: (2010) (2011) (2012) is the Year of the QR Code
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That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Guest Post: The 10 Commandments for Marketers
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Guest Post: How to Use QR Codes to Promote Your Business
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Guest Post: An Introduction to QR Codes
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Product Camp Atlanta: 25 QR Code Ideas in 10 Minutes
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Follow Dan Smigrod’s QR Twitter Account: uSCANme
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: Free Daily Online QR Code Newspaper (The uSCANme Daily)
That’s GREAT! – QR Code 101: All ‘That’s GREAT!’ QR Code Lists, Videos, Articles and Resources
Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

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Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/FreeQRcodes

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all Two Dimensional (2D) mobile barcodes: including ScanLife EZcode brand scan codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

QR Codes 101 Guest Post: An Introduction to Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes Sweeping the U.S.

Dan Smigrod — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 21:01:01 +0000

March 1, 2011 – Atlanta, GA USA – The follow QR Code 101 Two Dimensional (2D) Quick Response (QR) scan code article was first published by American Printer (February 2011 • Pages 20-25). This excerpt is reprinted by permission of the author.

by Chris Lehan, Director of Product Development for Impressions, Inc.

In the past two years, we’ve heard quite a Quick Response (QR) Code buzz in the printing industry. In an increasingly wireless world, they offer instant gratification. Invented in Japan in 1994, these codes are becoming more commonplace in the United States, particularly as smart phone usage grows.

Author's Example of What NOT to Do with QR Scan Codes: Example of encoding (as text) the first 250 characters of www.i-i.com. Because there is so much more data, the code must be that much larger. This code only scanned at 1.75" x 1.75" on the author’s phone. For a free scanner app, text SCAN to 43588

QR Codes are two-dimensional matrix (as opposed to bar) codes that connect the physical world to the Internet. The connection takes place when a user scans a QR Code using a smart phone equipped with a camera and appropriate application. Denso-Wave, the inventor, retains the patent but allows anyone to use it license-free. It is now a published ISO standard that any company may use to encode text data, including URLs, into a scannable image. (See American Printer “Quick Response,” July 2010.)

QR Codes—as well as ScanLife EZcode, Microsoft Tag and the other 50 or so types of 2D codes in the public domain—provide a lighting-fast connection between advertisers and consumers. Advertising typically contains a call to action: a consumer is asked to call a phone number, go to a store, visit a domain, etc.

With most advertising vehicles, there’s a lag time—a gap between consumer awareness and any subsequent action. Mobile marketers call this “drop off.” 2D codes eliminate that lag time. A person can scan the code and immediately activate the mobile action with an instant response on his or her phone screen.

Scanning a 2D code eliminates the need for the user to manually key text—the code immediately transports the user to a URL, plays a video or displays text. A 2D code storing a URL can be printed in magazines or on signs, business cards, buildings or just about any physical object where a person interacting with it might need information.

There are many creative uses for 2D codes and many yet to be invented. Careful thought and execution is the key to success when incorporating 2D codes into a business model or marketing campaign. Properly executed, they are a great way to augment a business.

Author Chris Lehan

It’s Best to Test, Test and Test

It only takes one negative experience to alienate consumers. Test your codes with several different mobile devices. Just because a code resolves on one device doesn’t mean it will work properly on another. For true verification, use a professionalgrade barcode scanner.

At Impressions, we use an Integra 9500 scanner. It provides a detailed report and overall grades ranging from A to F. Just as with most schools, “C” and higher are passing grades.

Make it as Easy as Possible

Realistically, some consumers won’t know what 2D codes (or QR Codes) are. Others might be familiar with the concept but hazy on using them. Be descriptive in your marketing. Include a sentence along the lines of, “Scan this code with your mobile phone. You’ll need a free reader—download it here: [URL]. Or, simply text [CODE] to this number.” Keep it simple.

Know the Lingo

Technically, two-dimensional (matrix) codes such as ScanLife EZcode, Microsoft Tag, and the other 50 or so types of 2D codes in the public domain aren’t QR Codes. Referring to them as QR Codes is the same as saying you Googled something on the Internet when, in fact, you used Yahoo.

Take a Closer Look

Unlike one-dimensional UPC barcodes, a two-dimensional (matrix) code can contain information on both the vertical and horizontal axes. Significantly more data can be embedded in 2D codes vs. their UPC counterparts. With EAN/UPC barcodes, only the horizontal white space between the black lines is read to extract the embedded data.

Depending on the type and length, a traditional barcode can hold anywhere between 6 and 50 characters. 2D codes can store up to 7,089 numeric characters or 4,296 alphanumeric characters. Three position detection patterns—the smaller squares seen within three corners of a QR Code—enable them to be read in any direction.

Arguably, all 2D codes can be referred to as quick response codes—they all work swiftly. But as a brand, “QR Code” is specific to Denso-Wave while the term “2D code” encompasses all varieties of this technology.

The Mighty Module

A QR Code’s smallest element is called a module. To comply with most mobile phones’ lens capabilities, it shouldn’t be less than 1 mm in size. High-end handheld readers can have smaller apertures and thus can read smaller modules.

The combined symbol size and quiet zone determine the overall image size. “Symbol size” refers to a code’s symbol width from black edge to black edge. The “quiet zone” is a white border that ensures devices can read the code. The quiet zone should be a minimum of four modules wide.

As camera phones continue to improve, a QR Code’s minimum size continues to shrink. About 90% of the phones currently on the market can read codes with a width and height of 26 x 26 mm (1 in. sq.).

But to ensure the broadest reading success rate across a wide variety of phones, the code should be 32 x 32 mm (1.25 x 1.25 in.) excluding the quiet zone. Newer camera models with improved macro capabilities can read QR Codes that are less than 10 mm (0.4 in.) wide and high.

Size Considerations

The more data encoded, the higher the pixel count. If there is too much data, the mobile reader can’t resolve the code. The simpler the code, the greater the chance it will decode successfully on a wide range of mobile devices.

Shorten the String

URL shorteners help reduce the amount of information in a 2-D code, thus its complexity and size. Suppose you started with www.i-i.com/capabilities/ packaging_folding.html.

Here’s what that 2-D code looks like (see American Printer magazine (2/11), page 22 for QR code examples described here). The lengthy URL and attendant number of characters results in lots of modules. Using a URL shortener (Google URL Shortener, bit.ly, tinyurl.com, etc.), we can produce a much simpler code—http://goo.gl/H3ooG—that still resolves to the same URL.

The resulting 2D code [see American Printer magazine (2/11), page 22 for QR code examples described here] is significantly simpler. When a user scans the 2D code created with this shortened URL, an HTTP request is sent to the server where the link was shortened. The server maps the shortened code to the full URL in its database, then redirects the user from its site to the final destination page.

Offline vs. Online

Offline codes do not require an Internet connection; they are resolved directly on the mobile phone because the data is retrieved from the code itself.

Online codes require an Internet connection or phone service and point to a URL, which triggers an interaction with the server. When a code is used as a pointer, information can be updated at the URL—all of the 2D codes that have been published will remain up-to-date. The code itself never changes, as it only contains a fixed-size web address. An online code used as a pointer to a website is much cleaner and more efficient than an offline code that encodes all of the information directly.

Many mobile readers have difficulty with a code greater than 33 x 33 mm (about 50 to 100 characters). Offline codes are best used for small amounts of text such as a phone number or brief contact details.

Direct Versus Indirect

Direct codes typically are larger than indirect codes because they contain the full URL of the content associated with the code. After scanning, a direct code is decoded by software on the mobile device, which sends the extracted URL to the mobile device browser as if it had been keyed in:

Scan code > decode > arrive at final URL.

Indirect codes, by contrast, store an index to a database containing information about the code. Users can track metrics such as the scan frequency and demographics. Like direct codes, software running on the mobile device decodes the code. But here the software creates a URL to a web address specified in the application containing the index and passes it on to the final destination:

Scan code > decode > intermediate URL > reference index > arrive at final URL.

That’s GREAT! Editor’s Note: Additional QR code content (including examples) is available from American Printer magazine (February 2011 • Pages 20-25) This additional content includes: Cracking the Code: A Cheat Sheet for Would-Be Code Warriors; How it Works; Case Study: QR Codes Offer Ohio Paper Growth Potential; QR Codes, AR & Mobile Payments and QR code examples.

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That’s GREAT! blog post by Guest Columnist: Chris Lehan is director of product development for Impressions Inc. Contact him at chrisl@i-i.com. Impressions Inc. (St. Paul, MN) is a privately held, family owned printing and packaging company specializing in production, printing and packaging for the pharmaceutical, medical device, personal care, software, specialty food and private label industries. See www.i-i.com.

Short URL For This ‘That’s GREAT!’ Post

http://j.mp/QRcode101-Chris_Lehan

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

_____________________

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/QRcode101-Chris_Lehan

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

QR Code 101: 20 GREAT! Questions (and Answers): Including How to Respond to ‘What’s the ROI on Quick Response (QR) Codes?’ And, ‘Why Not Wait?’

Dan Smigrod — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:09:46 +0000

Atlanta, GA USA – February 15, 2011 – Your “gut” says your company should be using Quick Response (QR) scan codes now, but your boss says let’s wait. What’s a visionary like you to do?

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: 2011 is The Year of the QR Code Or, What’s the ROI on QR Codes?
Video Written and Produced by GREAT! CEO & IDEAologist Dan Smigrod

Besides updating your LinkedIn profile to help you find a company that can take advantage of your smarts, see if the answers to these objections can help you move your company forward.

What’s the Return On Investment (ROI)? – Just like our website, how we use the QR codes will evolve. QR codes enable us to activate our brand and engage our customers in all our marketing communication tools, at point-of-sale and with our products and services. If we don’t want to jump into the deep end of the pool, let’s put our toe in the shallow end to get started. It’s not going to cost much to learn and the potential upside in generating revenue and social engagement is huge.
Does everyone have a smartphone to read QR codes? – More than 50% of the U.S. will have a smartphone by the 3Q11 or 4Q11, according to Nielsen (as reported by MediaPost on 2/5/11). And, 45% of mobile users upgraded to a smartphone in 4Q10. Now that Verizon offers iPhones, it’s likely the smartphone adoption rate will continue to grow rapidly. Our customers probably index higher for smartphone usage too. Smartphone sales now exceed computer sales.
Has everyone heard about QR codes? – While not everyone has heard of QR codes, that’s changing now that more than 50 major U.S. media and more than 100 major U.S. brands are using scan codes.
You have to download a scanning app? – Best practices when using scan codes are to let people know which scanning app to download. It just takes a few words like: Text SCAN to 43588 to get a free scanner app.
QR. EZcode. Isn’t this 2D thing just too confusing for our customers?– Best practices when using any scan codes are to let people know which scanning app to download: that would be true if there was just one kind of scan code. It just takes a few words like: Text SCAN to 43588 to get a free scanner app.
Let’s wait. Isn’t it too soon to get started with QR codes? – Don’t we need help now increasing: a) sales; b) brand engagement; c) activating our customers; d) generating trade and consumer media coverage; and e) leading our company into new ways that our customers want to engage with us? Even social engagement!
Why can’t we wait until everyone is doing it? – Yes. All our competitors will be using scan codes. By getting started now, we can learn how best to use scan codes to increase: a) sales; b) help our customers easily engage with our brand (social engagement); c) activate our customers; d) help generate trade and consumer media coverage; and e) lead our company into new ways that our customers want to engage with us.
It’s just not a priority – All departments in our business will want to be using scan codes. Let’s lead the way.
Let’s keep studying the space – Consumer and trade media loves writing about QR codes. If we get started now, we can generate buzz: media, social media and word of mouth about how we are using the QR codes.
I haven’t heard of QR codes (and neither have our customers) – Actually, the interest in QR codes is skyrocketing. Look at the Google Insight for Search results for QR Codes.
Let’s use a free code generator rather than pay for scan codes – While free QR generators are fine for personal use, our company should pay for QR codes so that: a) we can change the URL after the code has been printed; b) get scan code data that can help us understand the effectiveness of our print marketing tools; c) make it easier for the consumer to scan our (less dense) QR codes.
There are other new media/social media/mobile opportunities I want to do first. – Since using scan codes is relatively new, there’s still an opportunity to generate buzz (traditional consumer, business and trade media coverage, social media and word-of-mouth) by getting started now. It’s easy to get started; plus, like the web, the scan codes will not only be used in our marketing communication tools, they will also be used in our product and help with customer service.
There’s no risk in waiting – By waiting, we’re missing out on increasing sales sooner; learning how best to leverage scan codes for our business; plus, our competitors are using – or will be using – scan codes.
The whole thing is just too confusing – While scan codes can be confusing – just like getting started with a home page, Facebook or Twitter for our business – we learned by doing. We need to learn now so that we can engage our customers and activate our brand.
Not our responsibility. Go ask (marketing) (IT) (PR) (Web) (Mobile) – Since I am excited about the potential for using scan codes – by all our departments – let us show the way to innovate and leverage smartphones. Once we get started, we can figure-out later which department should “own” scan codes. Just like all departments use the web, all departments will use scan codes. We all need to help innovate. Once we’re up and running for our needs, we can socialize the use of scan codes by other departments to help achieve their objectives too.
It’s too hard to get an okay from (marketing) (IT) (PR) (Web) and (Mobile) – Yes. I can understand the challenge of getting everyone to “buy in” to the use of scan codes. That was true about our company’s first home page. Back then, our online presence could have easily have started in any of our departments. Once we launched, we figured out how to get all departments to participate in the success of our website. Let’s get started with our department’s scan code needs. Once we’re up and running, we can socialize the use of scan codes – and their potential uses by other departments.
QR codes are a fad – Smartphones are with us – and our customers – 24/7. That’s not a fad. That’s a trend that gets stronger everyday. We need to leverage QR codes on smartphones.
I scanned a code and had a bad experience – Lots of companies are making the same scan code mistakes over and over leading to bad customer experiences scanning codes. Like a rocket launch, we need to have a QR check list of pre-launch pointers. Here’s a list of more than 100 pointers to help us with a scan code successful launch.
It’s not a threat or an opportunity for our business – Yes. Scan codes are both a threat and opportunity for our business. Look at: a) Blockbuster versus Netflix; Newspapers and magazines versus the web (and mobile); typewriters versus computers.
People don’t watch video on mobile phones – “38% of iPhone users and 37% of Android users are watching videos now,” according to Nielsen.
Bonus: It’s too easy to make costly and embarrassing mistakes – Yes. Lots of major brands are making costly and embarrassing mistakes. Let’s engage GREAT! to provide us (and our agency) with the scan codes; help us with strategy for use of the codes; manage our scan codes, give us a fast-to-market experience; and help us avoid costly and embarrassing scan code mistakes common even by large A-list brands and major U.S. media companies using scan codes. GREAT! provides scan code services for a flat monthly fee that includes the scan codes. [For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.]
Bonus Video: Let’s go to the video tape. (Do they still make video tape or video tape players?)

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/QR-QandA

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

QR Code 101 Guest Post: Two Dimensional (2D) Quick Response (QR) Scan Codes: ‘The 10 Commandments for Marketers’

Dan Smigrod — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:24:39 +0000

February 24, 2011 – Atlanta, GA USA – The following QR Code 101 Two Dimensional (2D) Quick Response (QR) scan code article was first published by Mashable. This excerpt is reprinted by permission of the author.

Author: Jamie Turner is the chief content officer of the 60 Second Marketer, the online magazine for BKV Digital and Direct Response. He is also the co-author of How to Make Money with Social Media.

It seems as though every time you scan the web, there are posts and articles about companies that are using 2D codes such as QR codes, EZcodes and Microsoft Tags to promote their products or services.

Quick Response (QR) Scan Code: Text SCAN to 43588 to get a free scanner app. Scan this code to launch the 60 Second Marketer Social Media List of 45 Social Media terms

The problem is that many of these companies are using 2D codes as novelty items instead of using them to drive real, tangible revenue to their businesses.

I’ve spent the past few months analyzing several hundred different uses of 2D codes across the globe. Some of them have been quite brilliant (as is the case with the Smithsonian Institution’s Neanderthal exhibit, which we’ll talk about in a second). Others have been … well, not so brilliant.

Many members of the Fortune 500 have used 2-D codes to promote their products or services. For example, The New York Times Magazine took a photo of a QR code made entirely of balloons. Yes, you can create a QR Code using balloons and it actually works. Users who scanned the QR code were driven to a special mobile webpage promoting their 10th Annual Year in Ideas issue.

Starbucks is one of the first major corporations to use 2-D codes for commerce. The Starbucks Card Mobile Application allows baristas to scan a 2-D code off of your smart phone. The cost of your Venti, sugar-free, non-fat, vanilla soy, double shot, decaf, no foam, extra hot, peppermint white chocolate mocha with light whip and extra syrup is simply deducted from your card. When the money runs out, you just add more to your mobile card using the app.

Surprisingly, the best example I’ve seen for the use of a 2-D code was by the Smithsonian Institution. Yes, a quasi-governmental, traditional institution kicked the private sector’s rear end when it came to the best use of a new and emerging technology.

If you visit the Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum, you’ll see an exhibit about Neanderthals on the main floor. Neanderthals were contemporaries of humans who lived in Africa, the Middle East and Western Europe 30,000 to 50,000 years ago.

The Neanderthal exhibit is pretty typical, except that they’ve placed a 2-D code on it that says, “Scan here to be part of our MEanderthal exhibit.”

When visitors scan the 2-D code, they’re sent to a website that allows them to take a picture of a friend or family member with their smartphone. Once they’ve done that, users can superimpose an image over the photograph that shows what that person would have looked like as a Neanderthal 30,000 to 50,000 years ago.

The Smithsonian’s MEanderthal Experience Meets QR code

The Smithsonian’s MEanderthal experience doesn’t end with the superimposed photograph. You can also put different Neanderthal overlays on your photograph and even upload photos to your Facebook profile or e-mail them to a friend. The end result is that instead of spending, say, two or three minutes learning about Neanderthals, visitors with a 2-D code reader on their phone will spend five or ten minutes with the exhibit.

All this brings us to our main point: The 10 commandments of using 2-D codes for business. After all, if you’re going to dive into 2-D codes, you should have a handle on the best practices.

1. Thou Shalt Assist Thy Consumer in the Use of 2-D Codes

Even though the use of 2-D codes is increasing rapidly, most consumers are just starting to embrace them. It’s best to help consumers out a little with a line of copy that explains what 2-D codes are and where the consumer can download a code reader.

Here’s the one I use all the time: “Scan the 2-D code for a special coupon. To download a code reader to your phone, open your mobile browser and visit scan.mobi.”

Other good 2-D code readers can be found at BeeTagg.com, i-nigma.com and ScanLife.com.

2. Thou Shalt Drive Consumers Through to a Webpage Designed Specifically for a Smartphone

This one seems painfully obvious, but you’d be surprised how many companies drive people through to regular webpages. By linking your 2-D code to a mobile site, you’re enhancing the customer experience. A good customer experience equals return visits, which is what you’re looking for.

3. Thou Shalt Run Thy 2-D Code Promotion in an Area That Has Cell Phone Coverage

Another classic mistake is running a 2-D code promotion in an area that has bad cell phone coverage. If you’re going to run a 2-D code promotion in a subway station, a rural area or an office building, you’d better check the mobile reception first.

4. Thou Shalt Add Value for Thy Consumer

The best 2-D code promotions give people something extra for their trouble. Sometimes, that extra value is simply an enhanced experience. Other times, it’s a discount or special coupon that rewards them for taking the time to scan your 2-D code.

5. Thou Shalt Track the Traffic to Your 2-D Code Landing Page

Marketing is about metrics and measurement, so be sure you track your results. One way is to measure in-bound hits using Google Analytics or some other analytics program. Another way is to partner with ScanLife, Microsoft or some other 2-D code provider to track data using their systems. Experiment to see which approach works for you.

6-10. [Editor's Note: That Shalt Click Here to View 10 Commandments 6-10 for Marketers on Mashable]

_______________________

Author Jamie Turner

That’s GREAT! blog post by Guest Columnist Jamie Turner, Chief Content Officer for 60 Second Marketer, the online magazine for BKV Digital and Direct Response. Copyright 2010-2011 Jamie Turner. First published 9/1/10 by Mashable.

Reprinted by permission of the Author. Download a free chapter from Jamie’s book by clicking “How to Make Money with Social Media.”

Short URL For This ‘That’s GREAT!’ Post

http://j.mp/the10QRc

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Quick Response (QR) Code Campaign Check List: 101 GREAT! ‘Pointers’ for a Successful Launch

Dan Smigrod — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:47:21 +0000

January 27, 2011 – Atlanta, GA USA – Before you launch a marketing campaign using Quick Response (QR) scan codes to activate and engage your existing and potential customers, use this mission-critical pre-flight Two Dimensional* (2D) scan code check list of 101 GREAT! ‘Pointers’ for a Successful Scan Code Campaign Launch – so you can successfully launch and land safely.

Click here to view the embedded video.

(Video) QR Code 101: From Hero to Zero?

Quick Response (QR) Scan Code: Text SCAN to 43588 to get a free scanner app. Scan this code to launch a video shout-out for GREAT! Photographer Dan Smigrod

Give yourself one (1) point – a pointer – for each statement that you can answer, yes.

Then, total your score to see if you are ready to launch your scan code campaign.

If you have already launched, these ‘pointers’ may help you do an in-flight mid-course correction so that you can super-charge your launch to shoot for the sun, moon and the stars.

Is someone else in your company responsible for brand activation and engagement; mobile; new; innovative ways to connect with your customers or innovation?

Please share this Check List using this Short URL: http://j.mp/101QRpointers

101 GREAT! ‘Pointers’ for a Successful Scan Code Campaign Launch

___ I know the exact amount of white space required around the scan code I plan to use (and why).
___ I know which kind of scan code can be printed the smallest and still be scanned successfully.
___ If we alter our scan codes, we will engage an experienced designer that specializes in scan code design alterations. Then, I will test our modified scan codes on: Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, Palm and Windows smartphones; and scanning apps such as: ScanLife; NeoReader; i-nigma; QR Scanner, ScanIt, AT&T Code Scanner, Optiscan (and more).
___ I know why I should not reverse the code: white for black/black for white.
___ For analytics, I know why I should use a paid scan code platform to generate the codes.
___ If I use the scan code on TV, I know which kind of scan code works best and why.
___ I know how I can change the URL that my scan code “points to” weekly (For example, to point to a teaser video that points to this week’s episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations on the Travel Channel.)
___ All uses of our scan code will include “Text SCAN to 43588 to get a free scanner app for your mobile phone.” (Or, other appropriate way to get a specific free scanner app.)
___ I know which scanner app to suggest people get/use to scan the codes that we will be using.
___ All uses of our scan code will briefly state what you get when you scan the code. (For example, Watch a Sneak Preview of …)
___ I will include a tiny URL with the scan code, for those that do not have a smartphone or would like to retrieve the content on a computer or iPad.
___ My scan code will “point to” a value-added experience that includes video; iTunes App Store (for App, Software, Song or Album); buy tickets; or other Buy Now feature (or menu of some or all of these examples).
___ My scan code will activate and engage the brand experience by the scanner of the code.
___ I generated scan codes for each of the uses I want to track usage; even though all the scan codes “point to” the same URL.
___ When I have the room, instead of using Twitter, Facebook and YouTube static icons, I will use a scan code that points to a mobilized menu that includes options to select: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube (and other social media websites for our company.)
___ I know that scan codes are (typically) a call-to-action to engage our customers and activate print and should help move our company’s objectives and strategies forward.
___ If I decide to have the scan code point to a “menu” of options, the menu will be optimized for smartphones.
___ If I am asked by management – “What is the Return On Investment (ROI)?” – I will say that the cost to test this tactic is so low, we should learn – now. And, that more than 100 major U.S. brands and more than 50 major media brands are already using scan codes; and that nearly one-third of America had a smartphone as of November 1, 2010, says Nielsen (and probably a higher percentage of our customers – and growing fast). Plus, I will say, getting started now has potential to generate trade and consumer media coverage because the media continues to writes about what is new, different, interesting and engaging.
___ While the YouTube video URL we want to point to is not ready yet, to meet a production scan code production deadline, I have a solution that can (easily) deal with this challenge.
___ I know why I should not be using a free scan code generator for our business.
___ I know that if I engage a GREAT! scan code Rocket Scientist, we will be ready to receive our scan codes within five days: and receive help to avoid costly and embarrassing mistakes that A-List brands are making everyday in the use of scan codes.
___ I can look at the use of a scan code by other companies, and immediately know which best practices were not followed in the use of the scan code that will reduce its effectiveness in helping the company achieve their goals. I will not make the same mistakes.
___ If I must use a free scan code generator (subtract 51 points), I understand why I would not want to use a long URL (Add 1 point for short URL).
___ I know how to get scanning data reports to help evaluate the effectiveness of our print advertising.
___ I know why I do – or do not – want to include a frame or other graphic with our use of our scan codes.
___ I know why I do – or do not – want to brand our scan code (either in words, such as Fox Code; or graphics (such as including a logo within – or around – the scan code).
___ I understand the trade offs of including a logo within a scan code.
___ I understand the trade offs of using color instead of black in a scan code.
___ I understand the missed opportunities caused by displaying a scan code at an angle (such as Time magazine).
___ I will not encourage simultaneously driving and scanning by placing scan codes on outdoor advertising targeted to motorists.
___ I know the trade offs of “being creative” in the graphic presentation of our scan codes.
___ While I am responsible for advertising within our company, I will socialize scan codes within other departments for their use too (How To Assemble; or a How To Use video activated with a scan code on our product or product packaging, for example).
___ We will use scan codes in trade advertising?
___ We will use scan codes in our Business-to-Business or Business-to-Consumer advertising.
___ We will use scan codes on our packaging.
___ We will use scan codes on our products.
___ We will use scan codes in our training materials.
___ If our printed piece will have a laminated coating, I will test our scan code before the production run to make sure that the “clear” lamination doesn’t affect scanning.
___ We will use scan codes in our media releases that get distributed via PR Newswire or Business Wire or other electronic distribution service.
___ We will use scan codes on our tsotskis.
___ We will use scan codes on our collateral.
___ We will use scan codes in our trade show displays.
___ We will keep our scan codes live well after the campaign ends to take advantage of The Long Tail: Why the Future of Business is Selling Less of More by Chris Anderson.
___ If we use a scan code on a curved service such as a soda can or bottle, we will test our scan code before printing it on a gazillion cans or bottles.
___ We will use scan codes in our direct mail or catalogs.
___ I will obsess about the scan code experience from our customers’ perspective.
___ I know you don’t get a second chance to make a first-impression in the use of scan codes. (I want to receive positive media reviews for a terrific implementation of scan codes.)
___ While a call-to-action frequently may result in playing a video; I will push myself – our company – to think of other ways that we might use scan codes to activate print or other medium.
___ While scan codes frequently are implemented in print, I will push myself for surprising; unexpected; and effective places for the scan codes to be used.
___ I will not assume that people will know what to do when they see a scan code in our marketing communications.
___ I will not limit our scan codes successful by saying, “those that know what do with the code will scan it and those that don’t; we will ignore.”
___ I will double-check that the URL that our scan code points to work before and after the scan codes are public.
___ If I use scan codes in our direct mail to our opt-in mailing list, I will consider using a digital printer – that has experience with scan codes – that can merge a unique scan code to each recipient and have the scan code point to a mobilized and Personalized URL (PURL).
___ Even if I start out with just one use of a scan code to gain some hands-on experience, I will think through other opportunities to integrate scan codes into our marketing; product and customer touch-point experiences.
___ We will use scan codes on our signage: including such uses as outdoor; signs; point of purchase; shelf talkers; floor maps; t-shirts; or other appropriate use.
___ I know a t-shirt vendor that specializes in scan codes printed on apparel. I can’t even imagine how I would feel printing thousands of tees with scan codes to launch various videos – only to have the scan code not scan! (Oy Vey!)
___ I know how to keep track of all scan codes issued (even for other departments in our company) so that we track their usage and labeled with a naming strategy to prevent the wrong scan code getting used accidentally.
___ If we use the wrong scan code accidentally, I know how to change the URL that the scan code points to because I used the correct scan codes for business.
___ I have thought about unique, unexpected uses of our scan code that will generate buzz: traditional media coverage; social media and word of mouth.
___ I will use scan codes to help generate buzz: traditional media coverage; social media and word of mouth.
___ I have read many of the 300+ stories that were written about scan codes in 2010 for inspiration for uses for our scan codes.
___ I will help sell-in the use of scan codes by showing the 2010 “hockey stick” effect of the dramatic increase of those researching scan codes, as illustrated by Google Trends.
___ For inspiration for the use of scan codes, I have read 101 Uses of Scan Codes by GREAT! IDEAologist Dan Smigrod. [And, I will tolerate some shameless self-promotion by Dan in exchange for all the free scan code content published on his That's GREAT! blog.]
___ To help avoid costly and embarrassing mistakes, I have read the Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid When Integrating Scan Codes in Your Marketing Plans.
___ I subscribe – and read at least once a week – the free online daily newspaper about scan codes, The uSCANme Daily, published by Dan Smigrod.
___ I have read QR Codes: A Point of View (11/18/10) by BBDO/Digital Lab VP, Associate Director, Business Planning and Digital Strategy Edwin Philogene
___ I have read the ScanLife Mobile Barcode Trend Report (1/6/11)
___ I have read the ScanLife Mobile Barcode Trend Report (9/28/10)
___ I have read: Using QR Codes to Reach the Busy, Mobile Consumer (6/14/10) by InterlinkONE CEO John P. Foley, Jr.
___ I have read the 3GVision study (1/5/11) about Global Growth in Mobile Barcode Usage.
___ I have read the Nellymoser study about how the Top 100 U.S. magazines by circulation are using scan codes.
___ I have read: 2D Mobile Barcodes: A Definitive Guide (11/30/10) by NeoMedia
___ To keep current on scan code uses, I subscribe to or routinely visit scan code blogs (and free eNewsletters), including: That’s GREAT! (Dan Smigrod); 2D Barcode Strategy (Roger Marquis); 2d Code (Roger Smolski): SocialWayne (Wayne Sutton); QR Media (Stephanie Moss); QRe8 (Erik Goldhar).
___ We will let our employees know that we will be using scan codes: including: how, when, where and why.
___ We’ll provide appropriate training for our employees on the use of scan codes (in case our customers – or prospective customers – ask for help).
___ While I plan to be fast-to-market – before our competitors – I will use scan codes effectively: rather than: “I can check the box that our company is using scan codes.”
___ When pressed on the Return On Investment (ROI), I will focus on the long-term benefit of learning now; and the benefits from integrating the scan codes in all advertising; promotion; product and customer service experiences (and more). I may – or may not – ask rhetorically, “What was the ROI on our website the first year that we launched it? How important is our presence on the internet now.”
___ I know what the abbreviation 2D stands for.
___ I know what the abbreviation QR stands for.
___ I know which brand scan code Tag refers to.
___ I can explain how QR, 2D and Tag relate to each other.
___ I understand the difference between proprietary and non-proprietary scan code platforms.
___ I understand the benefits between various proprietary scan code platforms. (And, I will pick the platform that makes sense for us.)
___ I know I can spend a lifetime getting up-to-speed on scan codes. (1 Bonus point for each of these scan codes that you have heard of: Dandelion; Blotcode; Shortcode and Wimo Marker – or, 1 bonus point if you know a mobile site that will help you recognize these scan codes). I promise to launch scan codes within the next 60 days: sooner, if possible, so I beat our competitors to all the free initial trade, consumer and/or business media coverage in our space or our special use of scan codes).
___ I will embrace all the choices for scanning apps, variety of scan codes and scan code platforms as explorers of a brave new world; rather than remaining in dry dock.
___ Now that I have discovered scan codes, and all the great ways I can use them, I promise not to be so obsessive about scan codes while I am with my significant other. Instead, I will join a LinkedIn scan code group, such as 2D Codes for Global Media, to share my passion; new found scan code knowledge; learn from scan code Rocket Scientists; and offer to help the next generation of scan code Rocket Scientists.
___ I will think about how scan codes might be included in a third-party media or client sponsorship or integrated marketing campaign, if appropriate.
___ I will overcome “chicken and the egg” naysayers – not everyone has a smartphone; there are so many scanning apps; smartphones display content differently; awareness of scan codes is less than 100%; there are so many smartphone operating systems (and others) – so that our company can learn by doing and that the cost of learning is low versus the potential long-term gain.
___ I will be specific in our scan code implementation. For example, I will tell which scanning app to use to scan the code; how to get it and what you get when you scan the code (Sub-Tract 25 points if you say something like Time magazine ads with these needless words: “Simply scan the QR code with your smartphone.”) [The Elements of Style: 50th Anniversary Edition]
___ I will champion the use of scan codes whether it’s my department’s responsibility or another department within our company.
___ I will champion the use of scan codes in all departments. Just like a website address that now appears in all our marketing tools, products and customer service experiences, I recognize that scan codes are “the next thing” that will appear in all our marketing tools, products and customer experiences to activate and engage our customers (including internally).
___ Even if there is not a lot of public data/analytics available about the number of scans, I will move forward with scan codes to learn first-hand how the scan codes can help our company achieve our objectives. Besides, we’ll learn from those that launched before us and be that much more effective in the success of our scan code usage.
___ I know we are all in this new scan code world together, so I will do my best to help educate our customers on the use of scan codes rather than assuming that they know what to do when they see the scan code.
___ Even while implementing scan code solutions, I will be looking ahead to other related opportunities such as Augmented Reality; image recognition and sensing technologies.
___ While I celebrate all the A-List brands and Media Companies that have implemented scan codes before us, I will leverage their implementation to do an even better implementation (so I don’t make similar costly and embarrassing scan code mistakes).
___ I will brainstorm about scan codes meets our product or service; meets new, unique product or service; or, a product or service that might not have been possible without a scan code.
___ I will brainstorm how – and help – a non-profit our company supports could benefit from the use of the scan code to help increase the number of volunteers; education to a cause; donations or other appropriate ways to help the non-profit either in an alliance with our company or as a service of our company.
___ I will learn more about smartphone penetration in the U.S. today and forecasted to be over 50% by 12/31/11, according to Nielsen; and the use of Apps (even if I don’t have a smartphone or mobile apps).
___ I will ask questions about using scan codes; best practices; examples of brands – and media brands – already using scan codes; and both best of scan code usage and lots of scan code usage ideas.
___ While Quick Response (QR) scan codes are everywhere in Japan, I understand how and why the implementation in the United States will be different than in the Japan because of how smartphones differ in the United States versus Japan.
___ I will think twice (and then twice more) about pointing a scan code to our company’s home page (even if it is a mobilized web page).
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point): When I include the scan code in a magazine ad, I will make sure that the scan code doesn’t end up near the spine (center fold) of the magazine which may make it hard to scan.
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point): I will use scan codes in our internal communication tools to socialize scan codes among our employees.
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point): I will get manicures/pedicures so that I can quickly and efficiently look at all the magazine ads – and editorial content – that are using scan codes.
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point): If I include a scan code in a chocolate bar, cup cake, cake or wedding cake, I will guide the bakery in the production of the scan code with existing edible image technology; plus, I will confirm that scan codes work on sample food items – before a production run – before I have to ‘eat’ all the chocolate bars, cup cakes and cakes with scan codes that don’t work.
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point) – I have contributed at least one additional scan code Check List ‘pointer’ by clicking on Comments link (below).
___ Bonus Pointer (1 point): I will give some thought regarding if a scan code should point to our RSS feed – or if there is a mash-up of an API that may be appropriate in our use of scan codes.
___ Bonus Pointer (11 Bonus Points): I know which company offers Quick Response (QR) scan codes; EZcodes, Datamatrix codes and barcodes (and I will use the Invitation Promo Code – great – when signing up for an account online; or when speaking with a representative of this scan code platform company so GREAT! receives a referral fee. [Hey: if you were creating all this free scan code content; wouldn't you want to collect a referral fee too?!!!] I understand that I may want to sign up for a free Personal User account – first – to learn how to generate the scan codes for personal use (such as my resume if my company doesn’t have the foresight to let me launch scan codes in our marketing, products and product packaging.) I understand that when I am ready to use scan codes for business, I will ask to have my free account upgraded to either a business or Agency reseller account (and I promise to mention the Invitation Promo Code – great – I get it!
___ Bonus Pointer (100 Points): To help avoid costly and embarrassing scan code mistakes; get fast-to-market; choose the scan code that makes sense for our company; get the scan codes and strategy for use of the scan codes, I have engaged GREAT! (A Valued-Added Reseller of this Platform with dynamic codes so that the URL can be changed-after-the-fact and includes analytics for uses of the scan codes.) Plus, we need a scan code Rocket Scientist like GREAT! IDEAologist Dan Smigrod to help us launch and land a scan code integration campaign safely; and continue to review our marketing tools for best scan code practices and innovation.

_____ Total Points

Are You Ready To Successfully Launch Your Scan Code Campaign?

100 (or more) points: Congratulations! You earned a Ph.D. in Brand Engagement and Activation Using Scan Codes and among the elite, hand-full of Scan Code Rocket Scientists in the United States. You are cleared to launch scan codes at will (and apply for a job at GREAT!)
90-99 points: Ph.D. Candidate in Brand Engagement and Activation Using Scan Codes. GREAT! Job. You are cleared to launch.
80-89 points: Masters Degree in Brand Engagement and Activation via Scan Codes: Good Job. Get help with a few more pointers and you are cleared to launch.
70-79 points: Bachelors of Science in Scan Code: Good Job. You have potential to launch within 30 days. Complete your scan code studies here.
65-69 points: College Senior: you are at risk of costly and embarrassing mistakes launching scan codes. To avoid a launch pad accident or crash landing, please continue your scan code education here.
50-64 points: College Junior: you are at risk of costly and embarrassing mistakes launching scan codes. To avoid a launch pad disaster (like so many before me) or a crash landing, please continue your scan code studies and attend a few less parties.
40-49 points: College Sophomore: Crack the books if you want to be a scan code Rocket Scientist.
30-39 points: College Freshman: You’re smart enough to know that you don’t know enough to launch and land scan codes safely until you graduate. There’s still hope for you.
20-29 points: High School Senior: You don’t know what you don’t know. If you want to be a scan code Rocket Scientist, you’ll need to move on to scan code college. Find a scan code mentor (and read everything the mentor writes on the scan code topic) to help fast track you.
10-19 points: High School Junior: Many of your fellow students are taking Advance Placement scan code courses online.
0-9 points: High School Sophomore: You probably know more about scan codes than your Mom: but that’s not enough to safely launch and land a marketing campaign that includes scan codes to engage and activate your company’s customers.
Negative Score: High School Drop-Out: You must be a Martian: you’re not of this world.

Got a ‘pointer’ you would like to contribute to this Quick Response (QR) Code Campaign Check List? Please comment (below).

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/101QRpointers

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: The Making of The New York Times Magazine Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Cover (12/19/10)

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all Two Dimensional (2D) codes: including ScanLife EZcode brand scan codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: The Evolution of Tagging … Barcodes and QR Codes …

PostScript:

Wayne Sutton (SocialWayne) “@smigrod dude, that’s an online QR Code SAT! ”

GREAT! List: Top 10 Best Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code Uses in the U.S. in 2010 [Including Quick Response (QR); ScanLife EZcodes; and Tag]

Dan Smigrod — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:04:34 +0000

December 22, 2010 – Atlanta, GA USA – Here are the Top 10 Best Two Dimensional Scan Code Uses in the United States in 2010, in a list compiled by GREAT! CEO and Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod. [Two Dimensional (2D) scan codes include: Quick Response (QR)* codes; ScanLife EZcodes; or Microsoft Tags.]

Vancouver, BC Canada Mobio Makes GREAT! List: Top 10 Best Scan Code Uses in the U.S. in 2010

Adding-value by activating print marketing campaigns with video; enabling faster and easier mobile payments; and enhancing customer buying experiences are among the examples sited in the list of Top 10 Best 2D Scan Code Uses in the U.S. in 2010.

Despite more than 101 major U.S. brands using scan codes in 2010; more than 50 major U.S. media using scan codes in 2010, more than 300 major stories covering the use of 2D codes in the U.S. in 2010; and huge interest in learning more about scan codes in the U.S. – picking the top 10 best scan code uses in the U.S. in 2010 was challenging.

The key to successfully using scan codes is adding-value for the consumer. Unfortunately, of the more than 101 uses for scan codes, most implementation of scan codes in the U.S. do not live up to their potential either because the 2D scan codes fail to add-value to the customer experience; or make embarrassing mistakes in the scan code implementation that detract from consumers’ scan code experience.

When we look back in December 2011 to the Top 10 Best Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code Uses in 2011, we will see terrific scan code uses that leverage: location; payment processing; brand loyalty; transaction; dynamic pricing; how to and entertainment videos; mashups of new products and services; creative use of traditional and social media; product packaging; 1:1 personalization; real-time data; pro-social; Augmented Reality (AR); and new smartphone capabilities – as smartphones continue to become both ubiquitous and with us nearly 24/7.

In the mean time, here are the …

Top 10 Best Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code Uses in 2010 by GREAT!

Best Buy – by including a QR code on every product fact card, Best Buy enhances the retail shopping experience by providing easy-access to all product features and the ability to compare product features.
Starbucks – Mobile payments meets Caramel Frappuccino meets QR code meets smartphone. [wallet-free customer experience transaction] [Editor's Note: 1/19/11: Starbucks lets you pay for that Trenta with the iPhone in your shaking, over-caffeinated hands, reports Engadget on 1/19/11).]
Mobio – Mobile payments meets [any participating merchant] QR code meets smartphone [wall-free customer experience transaction] via Vancouver, BC Canada based Mobio Identify Systems service.
Mogotix – QR code meets paperless event ticketing
clikbrix – House for sale meets drive-by prospect meets QR Code meets tech-savvy Realtor
Qlinks for Lynx [Orlando Bus] – How long until my bus actually arrives [versus scheduled to arrive]? – GPS meets QR Code meets smartphone for real-time bus arrivals
Calvin Klein Jeans – publicity stunt meets activating print with (scantily clad models) video. [Prediction: more buzz marketing campaigns leveraging 2D scan codes in 2011 from savvy marketers]
Movie Trailers (and buy movie tickets now)/TV Show Sneak Previews/Video Games – activating movie; TV shows and video game release print marketing campaigns with video. Examples: Fox TV Network; Electronic Arts Medal of Honor video game; HBO; Starz; Target Christmas Catalog (video game) and Universal Pictures
Tommy Bahama – sunglasses meets activating print ad meets ‘buy now’ on a smartphone
Apple iTunes Store – newspaper and magazine print (and web) editorial content: it’s just easier and faster to scan the code to download the app; song, album, book or other digital content.

Which scan code uses in 2010 do you feel should have made this Top 10 list and why? Please comment below (and please include a URL pointing to your scan code example).

Special Thanks

John Meyer for inspiring this blog post with his question, “What is the most creative use of 2D/QR barcode you have seen [in 2010].”

Bonus GREAT! Scan Code Lists:

Bonus

Here are daily online newspapers about scan codes:

The @uSCANme #QRcode Daily published by @uSCANme (@smigrod)
The QR Media Daily published by @QRmedia
The Qr-Codes Daily published by @QRmedia
The #QR Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qr
The qr code Daily published by @waynesutton
The #qrcode Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcode
The #qrcodes Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcodes
The qr Daily published by @tppowers

For more daily online newspapers about scan codes, please click here.

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/10BestQRUses

__________________

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all two dimensional (2D) codes: including ScanLife EZcode brand codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: The Making of The New York Times Magazine Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Cover (12/19/10)

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all Two Dimensional (2D) mobile barcodes: including ScanLife EZcode brand scan codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

GREAT! List: 50 Major Media Companies Using Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes in 2010: [Including Quick Response (QR); ScanLife EZcodes; and Tag]

Dan Smigrod — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:25:22 +0000

December 13, 2010 – Atlanta, GA USA – More than 50 major U.S. media companies are using two dimensional (2D) scan codes in 2010 [such as either: Quick Response (QR)* codes; ScanLife EZcodes; or Microsoft Tags], according to a list compiled by GREAT! CEO and Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

As I predicted in June 12, 2010 in my That’s GREAT! blog post, 2010 is the year of the scan code because so many major U.S. Broadcast, cable TV, networks and newspapers/magazines started using scan codes: thus, kick-starting the heavy lifting of helping people discover another use for their smartphone: often by activating print with video. Plus, interest in scan codes shot through the roof in 2010, according to this Google Insights for Search (chart).

Major U.S. Broadcast, Cable TV Networks and Newspaper/Magazines Using Scan Codes in 2010:

ABC
Allure
Architectural Digest
Better Homes and Gardens
BBC
Car and Driver
CBS (Early Show)
Charlotte Observer
Conde Nast Traveler
CSI New York
Entertainment Weekly
Esquire
Facebook
Food & Wine
FOX
FOX Entertainment (Avatar movie)
Glamour
Golf Digest
Golf Magazine
HBO
IFC
Island Magazine
Ladies Home Journal
Lifetime
Lionsgate
Lucky Magazine
National Geographic Channel
NBC
The NY Daily News
New York Magazine
New York Post
The New York Times
The Oprah Magazine
QVC
Raleigh News-Observer
Reuters
Road & Track
Starz
Self Magazine
Seventeen
SPIKE TV
Sports Illustrated
[Fort Lauderdale] Sun Sentinal
Time magazine
Time Warner Cable
Touchstone
TV Guide
VIBE magazine
W magazine
The Washington Post
Bonus: The Weather Channel
Bonus: Women’s Day
Bonus: Which major U.S. Media Companies did I miss that are using scan codes in 2010? Please email me a link to a story about its usage, so that I can add to this list.

Bonus GREAT! Lists:

Special Thanks:

Bonus

Here are daily online newspapers about scan codes:

The @uSCANme #QRcode Daily published by @uSCANme (@smigrod)
The QR Media Daily published by @QRmedia
The Qr-Codes Daily published by @QRmedia
The #QR Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qr
The qr code Daily published by @waynesutton
The #qrcode Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcode
The #qrcodes Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcodes
The qr Daily published by @tppowers

For more daily online newspapers about scan codes, please click here.

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/50QRMedia

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: CSI QR Code Moment (6/24/09)

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: The Making of The New York Times Magazine QR Code Cover (12/19/10)

__________________

GREAT! QR Code List: 101 Major U.S. National Brands Using Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes in 2010: [Including Quick Response (QR); ScanLife EZcodes; and Microsoft Tag Scan Codes]

Dan Smigrod — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:48:28 +0000

November 30, 2010 – Atlanta, GA USA – More than 101 major national brands are using two dimensional (2D) scan codes in 2010 [such as either: Quick Response (QR)* codes; ScanLife EZcodes; or Microsoft Tags], according to a list compiled by GREAT! CEO and Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Here is the list of 101 Major U.S. National Brands Using Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes in 2010 compiled by GREAT!

AT&T
Absolute Vodka
Aloft Hotels
Amazon (Entertainment Weekly ad)
American Airlines
American Cancer Society
American Eagle
Amway
Arizona Diamondbacks
Army Strong
Audible (Entertainment Weekly ad)
Axe (Unilever)
Bacardi
Barnes & Noble
Bebe
Bergdorf Goodman
Best Buy
Bissell
BlueFly
Bosch (spotted in full-page ad in The Wall Street Journal 12/6/10)
Buick
Calvin Klein
Campbell’s
Canon
Century 21
Chevrolet
Clinique
The Coca-Cola Company
Crayola
D’Agostino Supermarkets
Diddy
Delta
The Detroit Redwings
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Diddy
Disney (The Lion King)
Dominos
Dr. Pepper
eBay
Electronic Arts
ERA Real Estate
Express (Direct Mail piece)
Fanta
Ford
Fruit of the Loom (Entertainment Weekly ad)
The GAP
Garnier
General Mills
GMC
Gold’s Gym
Goodyear
Google Favorite Places
Heineken
HSBC Bank USA
Intel
Jaguar (The Wall Street Journal ad spotted (12/6/10)
Jones Apparel Group
JC Penny
The JFK Presidential Library and Museum
Kelley Blue Book
Kellogg’s Special K
Kraft Foods
Lacoste
Lane Furniture
Loreal
Macy’s
Mazda
Michael C. Fina
Microsoft
Morgan’s Hotel Group
Mountain Dew
MSG Entertainment
NCL
NBA All Star – 2010
Neiman Marcus
Nestle (Dolce Gusto) (Entertainment Weekly ad)
Nike
Nine West
New York City
New York Islanders
Norma Kamali
OnStar
Orlando (Bus)
Panasonic
Pepsi (Pepsico)
Pillsbury
Pioneer
Porche
Pottery Barn
Proctor & Gamble
REI
Reach Toothbrushes
Remax
San Diego Zoo
Santa Barbara Zoo
SAS
Scrubbing Bubbles (S.C. Johnson & Son’s)
Starbucks
Sears
Sierra Mist
Simon & Schuster
Simmons Bedding Company
Bonus: SOAP.net (Entertainment Weekly ad)
Bonus: Sotheby’s International Reality
Bonus: SPIKE TV
Bonus: Sprint
Bonus: SuperYellowPages
Bonus: TAGHeuer
Bonus: Target
Bonus: Time Warner Cable
Bonus: Tissot
Bonus: Tommy Bahama
Bonus: Toshiba (Entertainment Weekly ad)
Bonus: Toyota Motor Sales
Bonus: Toys R Us
Bonus: Uncle Ben’s Rice
Bonus: Universal Pictures
Bonus: UPS
Bonus: U.S. Airways
Bonus: U.S. Army
Bonus: The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) – proposed use on car window decals in 2012
Bonus: Verizon
Bonus: Volkswagon
Bonus: The City of Washington, D.C.
Bonus: Warner Home Video
Bonus: Wheaties
Bonus: Whole Foods

[For a list of more than 50 major U.S. broadcast, cable TV and newspaper/magazines using scan codes in 2010, please see my blog post: Multiple Choice: A) 2010 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code; B) 2011 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code; or C) 2012 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code]

Need more examples to get QR code buy-in in your company? Expense a manicure and pedicure to your company and tear-out all the scan code ads in all the magazines you find at your nail salon. The quantity and variety of scan code usage in national consumer magazines may surprise you (and your management).

While your company is already late to the party; there’s still time to generate a Return On Investment (ROI) from: major trade and consumer media coverage for the use of scan codes (buzz) and social media (word of mouth): even before the first scan of your code. And, if you’re overwhelmed with how to get started and how to get started fast and avoid costly and embarrassing mistakes (such as OnStar’s multi-page ad with multiple scan codes that could NOT be scanned because they were printed one-half the size than best practices calls for), engage a scan code consultant.

Plus, see why 2010, 2011 or 2012 (your choice) is the year of the Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code.

If I missed a major U.S. brand using scan codes, kindly comment (below) and, if possible, include a URL link to an example. If I included a brand without a link and you have a link to a scan code example (or better example), kindly comment with the link too please so that I can update the list (above).

Special Thanks

Bonus

Here are daily online newspapers about scan codes:

The @uSCANme #QRcode Daily published by @uSCANme (@smigrod)
The QR Media Daily published by @QRmedia
The Qr-Codes Daily published by @QRmedia
The #QR Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qr
The qr code Daily published by @waynesutton
The #qrcode Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcode
The #qrcodes Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcodes
The qr Daily published by @tppowers

For more daily online newspapers about scan codes, please click here.

Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code White Papers and Studies

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/101QR-Brands

__________________

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all two dimensional (2D) codes: including ScanLife EZcode brand codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

Multiple Choice: A) 2010 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code; B) 2011 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code; or C) 2012 is the Year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code

Dan Smigrod — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 19:02:55 +0000

November 23, 2010 – Atlanta, GA USA – 2010 is the year of the Quick Response (QR)* scan code in the United States. 2011 is the year of the Quick Response (QR) scan code in the United States. 2012 is the year of the Quick Response (QR) scan code in the United States. And, you can quote me on that!

Fine. Okay. You got your bases covered. Which is it?

Actually, all three are correct.

Here’s why:

2010: 2010 is the year of the Quick Response scan code in the United States because more than 40 major broadcast and cable TV networks – and more than 100 national brands embraced these two dimensional (2D) scan codes, as I predicted in my June 12, 2010 That’s GREAT! blog post: 101 Uses For Quick Response (QR) Codes: Creating Audience Engagement With The Next Killer U.S. App. Major broadcast and cable TV networks include: [See List Below]. At least 101 Major U.S. national brands are using 2D scan codes. Here are some more reasons why 2010 is the year of the Quick Response scan code: 28% of the U.S. cellphone users have smartphones, according to Nielsen (11/1/10). Mobile data surpasses voice traffic, according to Chetan Sharma Consultanting (4/2/10). The percentage of people researching QR codes took-off like a hockey stick in 2010, according to Google Insights for Search (real time chart).
2011: 2011 is the year of the Quick Response scan code because the remaining major broadcast and cable TV networks – and most national brands will embrace these two dimensional (2D) scan codes in 2011. Plus, Time magazine will do a cover story on Quick Response scan codes in 2011. [Editor's Note 12/22/10: The New York Times magazine featured a QR code on the cover of its 12/19/10 issue. Click Here to see "The Balloon (QR) Code (Video): The Making of the cover [of The New York Times magazine) for the 10th annual Year in Ideas Issue"] (And, probably show an iPhone 5 scanning a QR code!) Plus, another reason why 2011 is the year of the Quick Response Code: 41% of the U.S. recent acquires of cellular are getting smartphones, according to Nielsen (11/1/10).
2012: 2012 is the year of the Quick Response scan code because it will be the first year that the majority of Quick Response scan codes: a) point to a value-added experience (versus, for example, a non-mobilized web page); b) follow best-practices for the use of scan codes; and c) become ubiquitous as nearly all businesses – regardless of size – integrate scan codes into all their: product; product packaging; and marketing, communication and engagement tools. By 2012, 80% of cell phones will be smartphones, according to Morgan Stanley. That’s possible because on average, people replace their cell phones every two years. Best practices include: telling people what they will see when they scan the code; how to get a free scanning app; and a short URL for those that either don’t have a smartphone or would prefer to look at the link on a desktop computer.

International:

And, just in case you have your brand is also interested in business beyond U.S. boarders, global mobile penetration is on track for 100% in 2012, according to Total Telecom (11/17/10): that’s 6 billion mobile connections by 5/31/11 and 6.9 billion people in 2011.

GREAT! List:

101 Major U.S. National Brands Are Using Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes in 2010

Major Broadcast, Cable TV Networks and Newspaper/Magazines Using Scan Codes in 2010:

Are 2010, 2011 and 2012 the year of the Quick Response (QR) Scan Code? I look forward to reading your comments. Plus, please let me know if I missed a major media company and/or brand using scan codes.

Special Thanks:

Bonus

Here are daily online newspapers about scan codes:

The @uSCANme #QRcode Daily published by @uSCANme (@smigrod)
The QR Media Daily published by @QRmedia
The Qr-Codes Daily published by @QRmedia
The #QR Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qr
The qr code Daily published by @waynesutton
The #qrcode Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcode
The #qrcodes Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcodes
The qr Daily published by @tppowers

For more daily online newspapers about scan codes, please click here.

Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code White Papers and Studies

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/YearOfQR

__________________

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commonly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all two dimensional (2D) codes: including ScanLife EZcode brand codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scanned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.

Top 300 ‘Must Read’ Quick Response (QR) Code Stories of 2010 [aka Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Codes; EZcodes; Tag; Mobile Tags for SmartPhone]

Dan Smigrod — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 15:04:58 +0000

November 3, 2010 • Atlanta, GA USA – If you are researching two dimensional (2D) scan codes such as Quick Response (QR) codes, ScanLife EZcodes, Microsoft Tag codes, FOX Codes – to help your company leverage smartphones and integrate the codes into your product packaging, promotion, publicity, social media and advertising – here are the Top 300 “Must Read” Quick Response (QR) scan code* stories of 2010.

If you are not researching 2D codes, consider this:

[Click Here for the first 150 'Must Read' QR scan code stories (as of 9/13/10). Below are the next 150 'Must Read' QR scan code stories of 2010.]

Reading these Top 300 stories will help you and your team think of great ideas to leverage scan codes; learn best practices and help you avoid making the same embarrassing and costly mistakes of companies that have already started engaging and activating their audience by leveraging 2D scan codes and the mobile internet on smartphones in the US: an estimated 160 million smartphones by 2013, according to the Yankee Group.

The Direct Mailman – Help, I Want to Include QR Codes in My Marketing Mix, But Don’t Know Where to Start! (8/18/10)
Manage My Practice – 22 Ways You Will Use QR (Quick Response) Codes in Healthcare in the Future (if You’re Smart!) (9/9/10) [Bonus: QR Codes for Prescription (RX) for dispensing drugs (middle of page)]
Search Engine Land – QR Codes: Are You Ready For Paper-Based Hyperlinks? (9/13/10)
Bradenton – [Microsoft] Tag Technology Arrives (9/13/10)
TNW: The Next Web – Touching Base With: Nadia Aly, Community Manager Microsoft Tags(9/13/10)
Antonio Express-News – Smart Phones Also Coupon Collectors [with QR Codes] 9/14/10
Silicon Republic – Digital Reach in QR Code Partnership with Metro Herald (9/14/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – HBO Uses Branded 2D Barcode (9/14/10)
KPLR-TV, St. Louis – KPLR ‘Go’ Codes For Your Smart Phone (9/14/10)
Advertising Age – Your Mobile Marketing Plan in Four Easy Steps (9/14/10)
YouTube – QR Codes [Realtor Using QR Codes To Help Sell Homes] (9/14/10)
YouTube – QR Codes Hit Fifth Avenue in High Fashion [Luxury Jewelry Retailer Michael C. Fina debuts their "mobile storefront"] (9/14/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Kellogg’s Special K Gets Fit with Microsoft Tag (9/15/10)
Beet.TV – Nick Bilton: How the Porn Industry Leads the Digital Media Industry (9/16/10) [First book to use QR Codes] [Printed book publishers: see #14 of my 6/12/10 101 Uses for QR Codes]
Ethnosnacker – [Potential QR Code Use for Ethnographic Research - App for iPhone] Barcode Readers (9/16/10)
BNET – QR Codes Are Smart Marketing Tools, but Only If Executed Well (9/17/10)
2d Code – Sleep With Microsoft Tags [Simmons Bedding] (9/18/10) [Ugh! When I scanned the Microsoft Tag in the story on 9/20/10, it takes me to a screen that says, "This website is temporarily unavailable. Please check back later."]
QR Code Report – QR Codes and Tags for Mobile Phones (9/27/09)
PR Newswire – TwitterMoms Launches the World’s First Social Seal of Approval Program[Integrates QR Code] (9/20/10)
2d Code – San Diego Zoo Signage with QR Codes (9/21/10)
Mobile Marketer – Simmons Uses QR Codes in JCPenney Stores to Simplify Mattress Shopping – Mobile Commerce Daily (9/21/10)
GoMoNews – JCPenny Launches QR codes For Mattress Shoppers [includes analysis/commentary](9/21/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Ford’s Innovative Use of Microsoft Tags (9/21/10)
TechCrunh – When Group Buying Met Check-In: SCVNGR [QR] Hooks Up With BuyWithMe On Local Deals (9/21/10)
BusinessWire – Tag You’re It! FASTSIGNS Offers QR Codes to Help Extend Messages Further(9/21/10)
ScanBuy eNewsletter – BlueFly Brings QR codes & ScanLife to the [TV] Original Screen! (9/22/10)
YouTube – QRMovie [QR Code Meets Text Book] – (9/22/10)
Mobile Marketer – HBO Taps QR Codes in NYC, Chicago to Promote New Show (9/23/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Surf’s Up with ScanLife QR Code (9/23/10)
GoMoNews – Qr4Wine Puts Mobile Barcodes on Your Wine (9/23/10)
News Blaze Press Release– QR Loyalty: The Restaurant Industry’s Most Impactful Trend in 2011? Self-Serve Loyalty Programs Via SmartPhone (9/23/10)
Knoxnews.com – Businesses Use SmartPhone Technology to Reach Customers (9/23/10)
Mobile Marketer – Why QR Codes Are Killer App for Driving Sales and Brand Loyalty (9/24/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Ride Snowboards uses Microsoft Tag (9/24/10)
The New York Times – [Quick Response (QR)] Bar Codes Add Details on Items in TV [Bluefly] Ads(9/26/10)
AgentGenius – Top 10 Ways to Use QR codes in Your Real Estate Marketing (9/26/10)
Mashable – New App Rewards Shoppers for Scanning Barcodes (9/27/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Help Prevent “2D Blindness” (9/27/10)
GoMoNews – The Hottest Mobile Barcode News: Tickets, Ads and Bad Campaigns (9/27/10)
Mobile Commerce Daily – Tommy Bahama Print Ad Sells Sunglasses Via Click-to-Buy QR Code(9/27/10)
MediaBuyerPlanner – Interactive Bar Codes Come to TV in Bluefly Ads (9/27/10)
TweakTown – MogoTix Uses QR Codes for Paperless Event Ticketing (9/27/10)
2d code – QR Code Readers for the iPhone 4 Compared (9/28/10)
PRWeb – QR codes Meet Social Media – Introducing JumpScan (TM) (9/28/10)
PR Newswire – Scanbuy Releases Mobile Barcode Trend Report: First Comprehensive Report on Barcode Scanning Around the World with a Concentration on North America (9/28/10)
Search Marketing Sage – A Quick and Dirty Reference Guide to QR Codes (9/29/10)
Vernon Country Broadcaster (Wisconsin) – Smartphone Technology Opens Up Mobile Marketing (9/29/10)
Internet Retailer – E-retailer Bluefly Reaches Out to Shoppers Through Their TV Screens (9/29/10)
What They Think? – InterlinkONE to Launch White Paper, Demonstrate Advanced Marketing Solutions [QR] at Graph Expo (9/30/10)
PR.com – Canine Comics Linked by QR Pittsburgh [QR Codes Meet Comic Exhibit meets Video] (9/30/10)
Geek Sugar – Scan Those QR Codes With Your Phone for Hidden Discounts (9/30/10)
InfoTECH – Ajman Bank Introduces QR Integrated Banking Services (9/30/10)
IntelliRESPONSE – Marketing Depot Revolutionizes Real Estate Business [with QR codes] (9/30/10)
GoMoNews – How to Fail at Using Mobile Barcodes [Touchtone Pictures: I Am Number Four](9/30/10)
The Economist – Two Dimensional [QR] Codes [Bluefly ad on Bravo] (9/30/10)
Mobile Beat – Mogotix Delivers Another Blow to Paper Tickets [via QR Code] (Video) (9/30/10)
Mashable – Goo.gl Goes Public [with QR URL Shortener] (9/30/10)
ScanLife Blog – ScanLife Sees 700% Increase in [Two Dimensional (2D) Code Scanning] in 2010!(9/30/10)
iSmashPhone – Google URL Shortener Contains QR Code Easter Egg: Video (10/1/10)
PCmag.com – Google Opens Goo.gl URL [QR] Shortening Service to the Public (10/1/10)
Scribd – 10 Reasons Why QR Codes Are Beneficial For Real Estate Marketing (10/10)
Brandweek – Quilted Northern Ads Try New Approach: Candor [And a QR Code on Packaging](10/3/10)
Not East To Forget.Com – QR Codes in Social Media, Marketing & Advertising: A Definitive Guide(10/4/110)
TechCrunh – Paperlinks Brings QR Codes To Event Invitations (10/5/10)
Intelegia – QR Codes For Economic Development? (10/6/10)
GoMo News – Paperspring Adds QR Codes to Greetings Cards (10/6/10)
Fierce Mobile Content – Hipcricket Teams with Scanbuy for Barcode Campaigns (10/6/10) [Release]
2D Barcode Strategy – CTIA Conference Panel Gets QR/2D Wrong (10/6/10)
Music Japan – Buying One Can of Coffee Means Getting a [Book] Chapter of a Cell Phone Manga! [via QR Code] (10/7/10)
Speaking of Real Estate – Are QR Codes the ‘Next Big Thing?’ (10/7/10)
Search Engine Land – Close-Up With Google’s New QR Code Generator (10/7/10)
Star-Ledger – QR Codes Bring ‘Quick Response’ Links Using Smartphone Barcodes Apps (10/7/10)
2d Code – How Many Would Scan a QR Code? (10/7/10)
Online PR News – Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals Uses Innovative Tactics to Promote Business with QR Codes (10/6/10)
National Products Insider – Innovative Labeling Solutions Adds QR Code Capability (10/8/10)
BusinessWire – VIBE Magazine Oct/Nov 2010 Issue: [Soulja Boy Available Only via QR Code on the Cover of the Issue] (10/8/10)
Furniture Today – Showplace Introducing [QR] Smartphone App During Market (10/8/1o)
PR WEB – Mobile 2D Barcode Tagging Requires Major Emphasis on Symbol Print Quality(10/9/10)
Charlotte Observer – Try Our 3-D Glasses for a Fun Look at Our Photos [QR Usage by Newspaper Column] (10/10/10)
PR.com – WearYourQRCode [First Life Meets Second Life: Avatars Outfitted with QR Codes](10/11/10)
PR-USA.Net – Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals Uses Innovative Tactics to Promote Business With QR Codes (10/12/10)
WhatTheyThink? – Do You Live in the Future? [Review of Book Integrating QR Codes] (10/12/10)
BusinessWire – Backer Group Links Digital and Physical Worlds with New QR Code (10/12/10)
The Cypress Times – Laura Recovery Center Introduces Use of QR Codes To Help Find Missing Children (10/12/10)
Search Engine Land – How To Use QR Codes in Social Media (10/12/10)
Perishable News – Frieda’s To Use Quick Response Codes On In-Store Signage (10/12/10)
Philadelphia Daily News – Double Take: Bilingual Tech Magazine Links Its Print Content With Its Website [via QE Codes] (10/13/10)
The Next Web Social Media – Bit.ly Now Lets You Add QR Codes To Links In Seconds (10/13/10)
Mashable – URL Shortener Bil.ly Now Generates QR Codes, Too (10/13/10)
TechCrunh – With Their Own QR Code Trick, Bit.ly Easts Google’s Balls (10/13/10)
QR Coders – Can QR Lend a Helping Hand to Struggling Newspapers (10/13/10)
Business Wire – eBay Adds QR Code Scanning and eBay Marketplace Listings to Popular RedLaser Barcode-Scanning iPhone App (10/14/10)
Retail Geek – Best Buy Deploys QR Codes to Enhance Shopping Experience (9/15/10)
QR Anywhere Blog – Diddy Talks New Album and QR Codes (10/12/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Finally … Some [Microsoft Tag] Numbers (10/14/10)
Scobleizer via Cinch – eBay adds QR Codes to RedLaser iPhone app; [Audio] Interview with VP of Mobile Steve Yankovitch (10/14/10)
TechCrunch – eBay Adds QR Codes To Barcode Scanning App RedLaser (10/14/10)
2d Code – The Difference Between goo.gl and bit.ly QR Codes (10/14/10)
2d Code – “Oh Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy!” Donald Duck Gets QR Coded (10/15/10)
The Sun – Quick Response Codes Are Smartphone Hyperlinks (10/15/10)
POPSOP – The Future Is Mobile [QR Codes] (10/15/10)
TechCrunch – Slap A QR Code On That Product So That People Can Life It (10/18/10)
AL.com – High-Tech [QR] Code Used at Alabama Homecoming (10/18/10)
iPhone Download Blog – ScanIt: A Great Free App for QR Codes (10/18/10)
PRWeb – Big in Japan’s “Scan with ShopSavvy” Program Raises QR Code Awareness with Help from Ford, Gold’s Gym and Other Brands (10/19/10)
The Digital Nirvana – You Don’t Sell 1:1 Printing; QR Codes; Or Anything Else (10/19/10)
TheFinancialBrand.com – FirstBank Uses QR Codes in a ‘Novel’ Giveaway (10/20/10)
TechCrunch – eBay To Merge Buying And Selling Phone Apps; RedLaser [QR] For Android On The Way (10/20/10)
PR Newswire – [Wine Pairings via QR Code] Canopy Management Wine Company Introduces Middle Sister Sweet and Sassy Moscato (10/21/10)
AllFacebook.com – Likify Turns QR Codes Into Likes (10/23/10)
10,000 Words – Five Ways Journalists Can Use QR Codes (10/25/10)
The New York Times – Testing a Bar Code Technology for Smartphones (10/25/10)
QR Anywhere Blog – Cha-Ching: QR Codes Are Money at Starbucks (10/25/10)
JAGTAG Corporate – Lifetime Television Selects JAGTAG to Power First Mobile 2D Barcode Campaign for ‘The Fairy Jobmother’ Premiere (10/26/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – New Lifetime Series Uses JAGTAG (10/25/10)
CBS5Albany.com – CDTA Buses Sport Latest Technology in Advertising (10/26/10)
TechFlash – Microsoft Tag Claims Front-Runner Status Among Next-Gen Barcodes (10/26/10)
PRNewswire – Microsoft Tag Growth Accelerates Exponentially With More Than 2 Billion Tags Printed (10/26/10)
PRNewswire – Microsoft Tag Growth Accelerates Exponentially With More Than 2 Billion Tags Printed (10/26/10)
CBS6, Albany, NY – CDTA Buses Sport Latest Technology in Advertising (10/26/10)
Printing Impressions – The Ace Group Produces ‘Time Out New York’ Premier QR code Issue (10/26/10)
The Digital Nirvana – QR Codes: What Are You Really Tracking? (10/26/10)
UBC Journalism News Service – Digital Fundraising Drives Downtown Eastside Mission(10/26/10)
TechFlash – On the Herbfarm Menu: QR Codes (10/27/10)
Engadget – Microsoft ‘Tags’ 2 Billion Real-World Objectives with its Phone-Friendly Barcodes (10/27/10)
ClickZ – Lionsgate, Aloft Hotels Run QR Code Campaigns (10/27/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Jones New York Uses Microsoft Tag (10/27/10)
QRmedia – QR Code Makes Sun-Sentinal Front Page (10/27/10)
ScanLife Blog – ScanLife for Developers is Here (10/27/10)
Appolicious – Paperlinks Gives Digital Twist to Real Life [with QR Codes] (10/28/10)
BrandWeek – Mobile Ski App Enjoys Snowball Effect [with QR Codes] (10/28/10)
TNW.com – This Vending Machines Accepts PayPay [via QR Code]; The Future Has Spoken (10/29/10)
Memeburn – QR Codes: The Future of Mobile Media (10/29/10)
GoingCellular.com – Interpret QR Codes with TwittQR (10/29/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – Time Magazine Uses QR Code (10/29/10)
SearchEngineWatch.com – The Future of Visual Search: UPSs, QR Codes, and Augmented Reality (10/29/10)
Austin American-Statesman – Austin Arts Groups Use High-Tech [QR] Bar Codes in Their Programs (10/31/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – The Lion King Uses QR Code (10/31/10)
Mashable – New Startup [Cimbal] Seeks to Turn Your Mobile Phone Into a Wallet Replacement [via QR code] (11/1/10)
ScanLife Blog – [QR Examples: Scrubbing Bubbles (SC Johnson); Neiman Marcus; Chevrolet, University of Chicago Medical Center] (11/10)
PSFK.com – Gumball Machine Prototype Accepts E-Payments (11/1/10)
AppScout – Let MogoTix iPhone App Mobilize Your Next Event [Leveraging QR Codes] (11/1/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – NY Daily News Uses Microsoft Tag (11/1/10)
NewsObserver.com (Raleigh, NC) – Creative Marketers Find New Uses for QR Codes (11/2/10)
1to1 Media – Welcome to the New [QR Code] Direct Mail (11/2/10)
PR-USA.Net – Casey’s Grill: Bar Goes Mobile With New [QR Code] Interactive Menu (11/2/10)
ClickZ – B2B Firm Pushes Facebook Page With QR Codes (11/2/10)
Clikbrix – Clikbrix QR Code Scavenger Hunt For Realtors (11/2/10)
Mobile Communications – Smartphone Data Consumption to Grow 700 Percent Over Next Five Years (11/2/10)
Marketing Charts – 3 in 10 Mobile Subscribers Have Smartphones (11/2/10)
Tom Martin Blog – Are We Really Ready for QR Codes in America? (11/10)
Bonus: DisneyDreaming.com – Disney’s “TRON: Legacy” [QR] Gift Cards (12/1/10)
Bonus: Inc. – How to Use QR Codes to Market Your Business (12/16/10)
Bonus: Online Media Daily – Microsoft’s Twelve Days of Diddy (12/16/10)

Bonus

Here are daily online newspapers about scan codes:

The @uSCANme #QRcode Daily published by @uSCANme (@smigrod)
The QR Media Daily published by @QRmedia
The Qr-Codes Daily published by @QRmedia
The #QR Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qr
The qr code Daily published by @waynesutton
The #qrcode Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcode
The #qrcodes Daily using the Twitter hastag: #qrcodes
The qr Daily published by @tppowers

For more daily online newspapers about scan codes, please click here.

Two Dimensional (2D) Scan Code White Papers and Studies

___________________

Subscribe to the Free Daily Online Scan Code Newspaper From GREAT!

The uSCANme QR Code Daily

That’s GREAT! Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Resources

Bonus: GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businessesand agency/resellers so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform (For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate usage reports for these codes). When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO Dan Smigrod.

Disclosures

GREAT! is a Referring Agent for the ScanLife platform. Use the GREAT! ScanLife Promo Code (“Invitation Code”) = great (for small, medium, large businesses and agency/resellers) so you can play with a robust, paid scan code platform). For example: generate free QR codes to practice with and generate free usage reports for these codes. When you are ready to use the scan codes commercially, please request a quote from ScanLife or email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

GREAT! is a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) of scan codes. GREAT! provides clients and their agencies with: a) scan code implementation (the actual scan codes); b) strategy (best use of the scan codes); c) scan code management (including reports); d) fast-to-market; and, e) without costly and embarrassing mistakes common even by large; A-list brands. Turn-key scan code services are provided for a flat monthly fee. For a quote, please email GREAT! CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dan Smigrod.

PostScript

Pongr Blog – QR Codes and TV – What’s the Deal? (9/2/10)
RWW – Augmented Reality [QR] Coming to DC Bus Stops Today (Photo) (9/3/10)
Monroenews.com – Using the QR Code: It’s High-Tech Marketing (11/6/10)
Ventura Country Star (Scripps Howard) – Creative Marketers Find New Uses for QR Codes (11/6/10)
RWW – Spanish Postal Authority Uses Smart [QR] Stamps to Promote Tourism, Business (11/7/10)
Mashable – SCVNGR Rewards Come to New York (11/8/10)
eSchoolNews – [Seattle Schools Announces QR Code Integration] (11/8/10)
Ministry of Health of Turkey – The Turkish “Pharmaceuticals Track & Trace System (ITS) [with Datamatrix" 2D Scan Code]“ [2008?]
RICG – Geo-Social Firm Scvngr Brings Reward Program to New York Companies (11/9/10)
Internet Retailer – Sears Launches a Cross-Platform [QR] Holiday Gift Guide (11/9/10)
PR Newswire – New York Auto Show Teams Up with ScanLife to Help Show Visitors Buy Tickets Direct from Their Phones [QR] (11/10/11)
PR Newswire – Veterans’ Service Recognized Beyond Memorial Markers (11/10/11)
Shore News Today – Latest Smart Phone Feature Could Revolutionize Marketing [QR] (11/10/10)
2D Code – MS Tag Takes The Magazine Market (11/17/10)
PoynterOnline – Mobile Media: QR Codes Catching on As Video Bookmarks (11/17/10)
2d Code – Are There Privacy Issues With QR Codes? (11/18/10)
The Washington Post – QR Codes and The Washington Post (11/19/10)
2d Code – QR Code Laser Etched on Waffle Batter (11/19/10)
Wireless Week – Unwrapping Mobile Barcode Scanners (11/29/10)
Press-Citizen.com – Local Buses [Iowa City] Unveil Real-Time Route System [Using QR/GPS] (11/29/10)
Brand Channel – Pongr Tells Brands to Remove Goggles, Respond to Customers [QR Competitor?] (11/29/10)
TFTS – Kinectimals Plush Toys Coming Next Year (Microsoft Goes for the Webkinz Model, Selling Plush Toys for Kinectimals in 2011) (12/2/10)
Recombu.com – QRapping Paper Will Look Geek-alicious Under Your Tree (12/6/10)
Near Field Communications World – Nexus S Set to Bring NFC to Google Places? [Video] (12/7/10)
Digital Signage Expo – EnQii Launches QR Code-enabled Digital Signage (12/7/10)
Pitchengine – Potratz: Text Message Marketing with QR Codes (12/17/10)
B2C Marketing Insider – Fortune 50 Mobile Communications: They’ve Got It; But They Don’t Flaunt It [QR] (12/17/10)
Blogto – Tech: Does Anyone in Toronto Use QR Codes? (12/17/10)
Mashable – Moodstocks iPhone App Scan the World Through Photos, Not Barcodes (12/18/10)
2d Code – Balloon QR Code on New York Times Magazine Cover (12/19/10)
The New York Times – The Balloon [QR] Code: The making of the cover for the 10th annual Year in Ideas Issue (12/19/10)
Toy News – Mega Introduces [QR Code] Mobile Technology (12/20/10)
2D Barcode Strategy – On-Line Purchases Made Easy with Mobio [#QR Code] App (12/21/10)
2D Code – Using a QR Code For Coupon Control (12/22/10)
2D Code – New QR Code Management System (12/22/10)
PR Newswires – Anvil Knitwear Launches iPhone App to Bring the First ‘Smart T-Shirts’ to Brands and Consumers – (12/22/10)
BBC – Image Recognition Aims to Add to Japanese Ads (12/22/10)
GoMoNews – Paperlinks Links QR Codes to Headshots (12/23/10)
Communities Dominate Brands – Lets Understand the Mobile Phone Market, Installed Base and Smartphones (12/29/10)

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: CBS News Early Show – How QR codes May Change The Future of Advertising

Click here to view the embedded video.

Video: The Making of The New York Times Magazine Quick Response (QR) Scan Code Cover (12/19/10)

Short URL For This Story

http://j.mp/300QR2010

*Though Quick Response (QR) brand scan codes are a registered trademark of Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave, Quick Response Code (QR) are commly – and incorrectly – used generically to refer to all two dimensional (2D) codes: including ScanLife EZcode brand codes; Microsoft Tag codes; datamatrix codes; and still other scan codes that are scaned or photographed on a smartphone such as an iPhone 4. Saying “Quick Response code or QR code is like saying that you TIVOed the TV show when you actually used the Comcast brand digital video recorder to record the TV show.