Archive for June, 2011

You’ve probably seen them around little squares that look like TV static. What you may not know is that these little squares – called QR codes – can be a valuable marketing tool for your small business.

What’s a QR Code? A QR code is basically a barcode, just like the ones the clerk scans in the grocery checkout line. But they hold a lot more information than a standard barcode, and are becoming popular for businesses in a world where many consumers live on their smartphones and tablets.

How Do They Work? Instead of having to type a web address into their mobile device, a customer can simply scan the QR code with their smartphone’s QR code reader (free versions are available in most app stores). The QR code reader then quickly and automatically directs the user to the web address or other digital content.

How Are Businesses Using Them? The best QR codes direct people to specific, valuable content – not just the home page of your website. Here are a few good uses:

• On business cards. Link to a vCard with all of your contact info. That way, your new contact can just scan the code, instead of typing everything in to their mobile device.
• On postcards, flyers or posters. Drive people to a coupon, or give directions to your business.
• In product brochures. Link to product information,  installation instructions or customer-support services.

How Do I Make One? An online search for “QR code generator” will turn up plenty of sites where you can make your own code. Google Chrome even supports a browser plug-in that creates a code for the site you’re visiting. But if you need additional advice or assistance with QR code marketing, your PostNet Neighborhood Business Center will be happy to help.

Additional Resources:

• Mashable's 10 Commandments for QR Code Marketing
• Wikipedia article on QR codes
• CBS feature on QR code advertizing

Your dad doesn’t need another tie, and you’ve already sent him a lifetime supply of grilling- and golf-themed greeting cards. If you’re looking for a personal Father’s Day gift he’ll treasure, PostNet has a few ideas for you:

• Photobooks. If you have a stack of old family photos, you have a memorable gift in the making. PostNet can scan the photos and design several styles of hardback photobooks your dad will be proud to display at home or at the office.
• Personalized calendars. Even if dad has made the switch to digital to keep track of appointments, it’s still nice to have something to hang on the wall! Just bring in 12 of your favorite photos, and we can take care of the rest.
• Life-size wall graphics. Several companies now make a material that allows us to turn a favorite family or vacation photo into a life-sized peel-and-stick wall decoration. They can be easily removed and replaced, without leaving marks on the walls. Check out this Facebook video posted by MT106, Missoula’s Neighborhood Business Center, for some examples.

And remember, if you’re planning to ship a gift to dad, you’ll need to plan ahead to avoid paying for expensive air shipping. We recommend bringing your gifts to PostNet for shipping via UPS or FedEx ground no later than June 10. We can also help with the packaging to make sure everything gets there in one piece. For more Father’s Day gift ideas or shipping help, find a PostNet Neighborhood Business Center near you.