QR Codes in PR

In previous blogs we have looked at the good, the bad and the ugly uses of QR codes. They continue to appear in more and more places and as a tool they really should be considered as part of a PR campaign. The beauty of QR codes is that they have the power to direct straight to a campaign page. However to ensure maximum effect, how this is done should be carefully designed. Some sites for example focus on QR code generators whilst others provide updates and social media benefits. A PR campaign should be designed so that it is suitable for mobile. As most codes are snapped with mobile phones, the site that the snapper is taken to should have a mobile version.

Now to think about the mobile page itself. What is it you want from the campaign and how can you provide a link to the campaign on a long term basis? The answer is to ensure that you have user friendly link buttons for 'following' on Twitter and 'liking' on Facebook. This will keep an audience engaged and a line of communication for those all important up to date PR messages. Perhaps even a subscription of some kind can be added to the website.

Providing recommendations, offers and coupons are also an excellent way to interest an audience and ensure future uses of QR codes. To go further, social media interaction can offer even more. A lot can be learnt from the the example of Starsky Robinson, who, '"currently manages all of THQ Inc Kids, Family and Casual digital social campaigns. This includes the uDraw GameTablet, the Biggest Loser, Marvel Super Hero Squad, You Don’t Know Jack, Costume Quest and Voltron. His position at THQ Inc. involves managing website development, influence campaigns, and developing engaging social media initiatives."

Interactive initiatives in the gaming world have obvious benefits because of their nature. But this can be translated into other realms of marketing. The key is to provide some kind of reward to the QR snapper, something that will encourage future visits. This is something that is best tailor made for a campaign. The danger with QR codes at the moment is that monotonous agenda pushing will discourage the consumer. Codes that automatically upload details to the users mobile phone are fine, but this must be communicated prior to the snapshot.