QR codes or Scan tags – Using them?

A Quick Response (QR) code is a two-dimensional code with various data (phone numbers, text, photos, URLs, etc.)that can be scanned by smartphone cameras. Scan tags from Microsoft are colorful versions of your custom scan code. These scan apps have been available since mid last year. Are you using them?

Smartphones have the capability to scan and read QR codes or Scan Tags with the click of a camera.

If you are listed on Google Places and Google Maps, Google has automatically generated a QR for you. Put this QR on your business card, brochures or in your print ad or poster and someone scanning it will land on a map for the location of your business.

A scan tag on your business card can be useful when you are meeting a new attorney or potential client away from your office. A scan tag of the courthouse location can be useful when given to a client who has not been there previously. Scan the tag and their smart phone now has the location and directions. (Note: A Scan tag app must be added to the phone. This is a separate program, not to be confused with using the phone's camera.)

As a general rule, normal five-line color Tags must be at least 3/4" by 3/4" as seen by the user; black and white Tags must be at least 7/8" by 7/8". These size requirements include the white space around the Tag.

I use both types. A colorful Scan Tag on my business card always raises questions People ask what it is, how it works and then more discussion about my services. A QR on a product flyer (one of my books) links directly to the purchase page. An associate uses her scan tag to link to the page on her website announcing her upcoming speaking events.

All you need is your computer to generate the QR codes or Scan Tags and then place them on your business cards and brochures. You can create a QR or Scan Tag for simple text, a URL, an email message, an SMS or MMS, a phone number, or a location. (http://www.qr-barcodes.com/online-generator)

With a Microsoft Scan Tag you can get reports of how many times your tag was scanned and from what geographic area. (http://tag.microsoft.com/)

These have been available for many months.

Moved from previous server, Original post 2/16/11