QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns

MdJones · 27th Jun 2012, 01:04 PM

So many people struggle with QR codes, they don't see it working for them or they have no idea how to use them. I have reviewed many of my clients QR code campaigns and I am going to share some stats with you. I pulled 24 campaigns we have worked on in the past yr, and looked at the plain black and white QR code stats, vs designed and branded QR codes stats, and desktop formated site, vs mobile friendly site.

What we found is remarkable, the branded designed QR code was 88% more likely to be scanned then the standard free black and white generated QR code. We also found the mobile sites were 71% more effective in people calling to action then the standard desktop formated sites. Pair that up with the popular statistic that conversion rates are 10 times higher on a phone than on the average website, and we have a winning mobile marketing campaign. There is more to this that I have not looked into yet or I don't know, for example, I don't have stats on where exactly in the world these campaigns all took place, all I know the campaigns ran in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, also, I don't know the medias they printed on, it could be magazines, mailers, t-shirts etc. I always recommend printing the QR codes everywhere! If its not out there, it wont get scanned. Also, if it helps at all, coupons were the most effective call to action campaigns. Hope this helps!

Thank you

martbost · 28th Jun 2012, 07:17 AM

Thanks for sharing your stats MdJones, it's very useful indeed.

Mr Bill · 30th Jun 2012, 09:48 AM

Interesting. That's good to know. Some would have us believe that QR codes are worthless, useless and that "no one" knows what they are. Obviously untrue and your research opens a small window into the world of QR marketing and uses. Keep up the good QR work and let us know what else you find.

MdJones · 2nd Jul 2012, 09:00 AM

Thanks, I have looked deeper into the campaigns themselves, because as I said before, I don't know how most are using the QR codes. The stats range all over the place, some campaigns lasted 3 months, and are expired now, others are still alive. One campaign lasted 3 months and had over 1,000 scans between 5 codes, within one week, then pretty much nothing after that. I think the campaign was for an event and it was a scavenger hunt. Another one I will use for example is still active, it's a restaurant, and they put their custom QR code everywhere, table tents, mailers, even employees t-shirts, and they average 3-20+ scan per day which is a good average for a QR code campaign, but again, they put it on everything they print on. For a successful QR code campaign, it has to be well thought out, and pushed hard. I think those who don't succeed don't do either, or just one of those, which isn't enough.

hostwindsEvanM · 2nd Jul 2012, 09:43 AM

Good to see some actual numbers being put up. Interesting to see people actually use these things. I am under the impression that 9/10 people don't even know a QR code exists.

ghostrecon · 2nd Jul 2012, 09:45 AM

Interesting. I'm not sure why Google/Apple haven't added a QR scanner into their photo app by default, but once that happens I'm sure QR codes will be more widely adopted. Easy Google Analytics integration too!

MdJones · 2nd Jul 2012, 10:09 AM

Originally Posted by hostwindsEvanM

Good to see some actual numbers being put up. Interesting to see people actually use these things. I am under the impression that 9/10 people don't even know a QR code exists.

To get people to scan the QR code takes a lot of education. I want to use this QR code at the event for a example, it was a scavenger hunt at a trade show. If they simply put the QR code on flyers and their booth, and around various locations they wouldn't see many scans at all, 1 out of 10 is a little high, try 1-2 out of 100. But what they did was have their team scattered around the trade show, physically getting people engaged and scanning the QR code, my contact their told me they had to do a lot of educating, and a lot of the scans were first time scanners. The goal was to grow their email list with a mobile contact form to opt in the competition. It worked, with a lot of effort, they want to grow the knowledge base on QR codes, so in the future they don't need to waste a lot of effort for scans. We shall see in time.

YellowGreenMedia · 11th Jul 2012, 04:16 AM

Originally Posted by MdJones

Thanks, I have looked deeper into the campaigns themselves, because as I said before, I don't know how most are using the QR codes. The stats range all over the place, some campaigns lasted 3 months, and are expired now, others are still alive. One campaign lasted 3 months and had over 1,000 scans between 5 codes, within one week, then pretty much nothing after that. I think the campaign was for an event and it was a scavenger hunt. Another one I will use for example is still active, it's a restaurant, and they put their custom QR code everywhere, table tents, mailers, even employees t-shirts, and they average 3-20+ scan per day which is a good average for a QR code campaign, but again, they put it on everything they print on. For a successful QR code campaign, it has to be well thought out, and pushed hard. I think those who don't succeed don't do either, or just one of those, which isn't enough.

Nonsens, the reason why people fail with QR codes is not that they don´t push it hard enough or that they didn´t thought things true, the reason QR will never be more then a gadget for nerds and marketers is because the general public don´t have a clue of what they are... do the math, no people that use QR codes because they don't have a clue of what they are and they can't be bothered with it = no sales... it is as simple as that....

dennism70 · 11th Jul 2012, 09:13 AM

Originally Posted by HughCassidy

QR codes is a really good idea. It's not really about marketing, but one underground graffiti team became famous thanks to qr-code they placed on the buildings. QRs give good opportunities, if you know how to use it

Its NOT really about marketing???

IT'S ALL ABOUT MARKETING!!!

QR codes are THE way to put more AD SPACE on a small printed area. Instead of your ad and a reference to your url (most people are not behind a desktop when reading the paper) you put the QR code which can make the ad become INTERACTIVE and put MORE INFORMATION (virtual) behind the ad.

I'm killing it with realastators who NORMALLY put a picture with their ads in the personals of the newspapers. They get what it brings them.

If you leave time between showing the ad and the opportunity to look at the extra info like through an url with the ad you loose commitment. Thats why there are still TELEPHONE numbers with ALL ads.

Please wake up!!!

MdJones · 12th Jul 2012, 03:30 PM

Originally Posted by YellowGreenMedia

Nonsens, the reason why people fail with QR codes is not that they don´t push it hard enough or that they didn´t thought things true, the reason QR will never be more then a gadget for nerds and marketers is because the general public don´t have a clue of what they are... do the math, no people that use QR codes because they don't have a clue of what they are and they can't be bothered with it = no sales... it is as simple as that....

I get where you are coming from, but I did do the math, that is why I posted this thread. You trash QR codes a lot, I understand why, QR codes frustrate me too, not a lot of people know what they are, but for a business, if you can gain one, maybe 10 leads from a QR code, then why not use it? No, not everyone will scan, but I think most business owners are well aware of that, but again, if it brings in one sale, and the code was practically free, then why not use it.

TrumpiaTim · 13th Jul 2012, 01:46 AM

Most QR Codes fail because there's a general assumption that the public knows what to do. For example, if you look in a marketing ad, you'll now see a QR code on the bottom right hand corner.

What does this mean to a consumer? Absolutely nothing.

We need to currently focus on educating the public on mobile marketing so the adoption of not only QR codes but mobile marketing in general will pick up.

WillR · 22nd Jul 2012, 10:44 PM

Originally Posted by MdJones

You trash QR codes a lot, I understand why

You are also posting a LOT of pro QR codes comments on this forum... and after looking at your signature we can all understand why.

You have a highly vested interest in getting people to believe QR codes are a huge and useful marketing tool.

The reality is, they are not. They have been around for along time now and if they were going to be the success you hope they are, it would have already happened.

It hasn't. That's not opinion, that's fact.

A few small tests with technology crazed crowds that know about QR codes and already have apps installed on their phones is not a real market test.

Try doing a test in a shopping centre full of everyday people.

John Ayling · 23rd Jul 2012, 08:19 AM

One thing that may raise the level of discussion re QR Codes is an understanding of the Technology Lifecyle.

Technology lifecycle - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - have a look at the graph part way down the page talking about innovation adoption and make up your own opinion about the state of the QR code market.

Finding ways to better analyse the market gives you a more rational approach as to whether you decide to invest your efforts in a certain technology or not.

Darrett · 23rd Jul 2012, 11:16 AM

I'm not sure where I stand with QR's. At first I thought they were neat to me but just because I'm a nerd, and that the average person will never catch on. But I am seeing them more and more on all forms of advertisement which must increase exposure and people's curiosity. The biggest setback I see is that people just place them randomly, and with no sort of instructions. A simple "Scan Me" or "Scan Code to Visit Website" seems like it would do a lot better to me. People don't like to think, they like being told what to do.

WillR · 23rd Jul 2012, 09:58 PM

Even when I see QR codes posted on the Internet, I almost always sit there with my mobile phone saying to myself... "Damn, where's the actual link? I'd much rather just type the link in and be done with it."

I really do not see them as any big convenience tool.

They ARE a gimmick. Pure and simple.

Darrett · 23rd Jul 2012, 10:42 PM

Well obviously posting them on the internet is downright stupid.

But if you are trying to get them to a video, or a certain page that can have a long url, it is convenient to scan straight to it on a mobile phone.

However the inconvenient part is trying to explain how they work to the average person.

John Ayling · 23rd Jul 2012, 11:49 PM

The issue seems to be with a low level of adoption.
Some gimmicks that don't appear to have any intrinsic value sell like hot cakes.
Maybe if marketers place more emphasis on the customer needs rather than on product attributes, they will make more sales.
I think it's important to understand why QR codes have not been adopted so readily rather than vehement Yes! or No! comments.

WillR · 23rd Jul 2012, 11:50 PM

Originally Posted by Darrett

Well obviously posting them on the internet is downright stupid.

But if you are trying to get them to a video, or a certain page that can have a long like, it is convenient to scan straight to it on a mobile phone.

However the inconvenient part is trying to explain how they work to the average person.

I agree with you in regards to long urls for videos and the like but lets face it, nowadays people can and should just use url shorteners for long links like that to make it easier for their visitors. Not everyone is going to have a QR reader on their phone so you need to provide a nice short link regardless. If I see the short link then it's just as easy for me to type that in than have to go and open my QR app and scan it a few times.

zoro · 24th Jul 2012, 12:15 AM

I always provide a URL link under the QR Code, Plus a note saying "Scan this with your QR Reader for instant access"

WillR · 25th Jul 2012, 10:14 PM

Originally Posted by zoro

I always provide a URL link under the QR Code, Plus a note saying "Scan this with your QR Reader for instant access"

That's how it SHOULD be done. You would be amazed how many people do not include a link below their QR code though -- and it's killing their conversions.

KingMedia · 26th Jul 2012, 01:57 PM

QR codes can be great... IF the general public knew how they worked and IF businesses would STOP using them incorrectly (no action, no mobile site, etc).

I always put a URL under the qr code itself or say "why" you need to scan it.

QR codes are on the brink of extinction ...unfortunately.

Direct Connect Group · 31st Jul 2012, 12:03 AM

Its true that most of the people are unaware of QR Codes but it depends on the demographics, marketing message and also the type of business.
From business point, if you are dealing with B2C then it might not give good results but in case of B2B, you are going to get a good target audience.
Marketing messages helps in capturing the attention.
In recent times these QR Codes are much into News:
"42-foot QR code appeared on the roof of Facebook's new headquarters at 1 Hacker Way"
" Volkswagen ran a QR code campaign to promote Crafter, its line of commercial vans."
These have been so popular that everyone was keen to know what QR Codes actually does. So there is hardly a scope to think that people are unaware of QR Codes.

dslfarms · 31st Jul 2012, 12:21 AM

QR codes are it , i have a local grocery store chain that i added qr's to the advertisement they sent out in a major local sunday paper & their traffic count jumped x 10 for that advertisement alone ,= YEs qr's are BIG if used correctly.

WillR · 31st Jul 2012, 01:02 AM

Originally Posted by dslfarms

QR codes are it , i have a local grocery store chain that i added qr's to the advertisement they sent out in a major local sunday paper & their traffic count jumped x 10 for that advertisement alone ,= YEs qr's are BIG if used correctly.

Do you have any proof that it was the QR codes that actually made the difference in that instance? In marketing it's very easy to assume things based on first glance but unless it was the exact same ad sent out on the exact same day, and you were tracking the QR codes scans, then it's too hard to draw any solid conclusions like that.

SydMichael · 1st Aug 2012, 04:22 PM

Great info Mr Jones Thanks!

JulesS · 1st Aug 2012, 11:51 PM

MdJones provides some objective analysis and it's good to see this coming forward. I think the jury on QR codes should still be out.

To be honest, although I have entirely been an observer rather than an active participant here at the forum, I am prompted to respond in this post as I would have to say some folk perpetuate too much subjective and anecdotal evidence. Sorry WillR, saying it is "fact" does not make it so. Further, I don't agree that QR codes are just a gimmick.

I have observed there are way more QR codes appearing than you folk seem to realise. Adoption could well take the path of barcodes on products, that took a while for manufacturers to embrace. The rest of us barely notice them even now but they are still there serving a greater purpose. QR codes are not generally understood but when you guys take the time to reveal the "secrets" behind the codes, you will see the light go on in your client's eyes.

There is already very high use of QR codes in real estate publications and numerous other magazines. For example, has anyone here in Australia read the Better Homes and Gardens magazine lately. They started out with QR codes then developed an app to link their printed publication to their website.

Most SME's would not have the same requirement as BH&G for an app but the QR code provides that much needed link between traditional marketing using printed media and the revolution that internet marketing provides. As a very longtime business consultant in the offline world, I can tell you that business owners will try new things especially if they don't have to leave the comfort zone of their traditional marketing campaigns.

At present, QR codes are just one more "tool" that can be tried, without great expense, to link their promotional materials. Although helpful to be able to track codes it's way too anal to ask the question about the same ad on the same day etc... etc. You would just bog down your marketing team and get analysis paralysis -- For that business owner, it meant he had an increase in "traffic count x 10" That's great news, terrific ROI, it worked!!! Outcome: do more of it.

Whether it stays in it's current form or not, I can tell you that businesses will continue to look for ways of integrating their marketing efforts and that in the vast business world out there, marketing is more than just activity on the internet.

MdJones · 2nd Aug 2012, 10:31 AM

Happy to see a down to earth conversation about QR codes here. I would have to totally agree about putting a short URL under or around the QR code, and a call to action as to why people should scan. I recently made a infograph called America's QR Code Crisis, basically going over what's wrong with most of the QR codes out there. I personally cringe every time I'm about to scan a QR code, bracing myself to be disappointed by the content. But what I have noticed, is it isn't a debate of having a link people type in there phone, or have a QR code, because what the QR code does is drive engagement the link can't. For example, I have a sms client building their list via QR code and Phone number, there is 376 numbers on the list, and 184 came from scans on the QR code. People like to be take advantage of technology, and QR codes are a easy way to show it. And scanning a QR code is faster then typing in a link, (yes, i actually timed and taped 2 ppl scanning vs typing in the same short link) and more convenient, but we all have our preferences. If a business can gain one more client from putting a QR code on a ad, then why wouldn't it be worth it? (unless of course the code offers a horrible user experience, in that case, could cost business)

freeburd · 2nd Aug 2012, 10:03 PM

Originally Posted by WillR

Even when I see QR codes posted on the Internet, I almost always sit there with my mobile phone saying to myself... "Damn, where's the actual link? I'd much rather just type the link in and be done with it."

I really do not see them as any big convenience tool.

They ARE a gimmick. Pure and simple.

I would not call QR codes a gimmick, but I will not use QR codes extensively in my own marketing campaigns or my clients' marketing campaigns. I would rather get $$$ in my and my clients' pockets instead of spending money to educate people about QR codes.

We are not dealing with technically proficient crowds of people. We are rather dealing with people that have only 1 question: what's in it for me?

WillR · 2nd Aug 2012, 11:38 PM

Originally Posted by JulesS

I have observed there are way more QR codes appearing than you folk seem to realise. Adoption could well take the path of barcodes on products, that took a while for manufacturers to embrace. The rest of us barely notice them even now but they are still there serving a greater purpose. QR codes are not generally understood but when you guys take the time to reveal the "secrets" behind the codes, you will see the light go on in your client's eyes.

There is already very high use of QR codes in real estate publications and numerous other magazines. For example, has anyone here in Australia read the Better Homes and Gardens magazine lately. They started out with QR codes then developed an app to link their printed publication to their website.

This is where a lot of beginner marketers make their mistake. I don't care how many QR codes I see in publications or on real estate sign boards -- and neither should you.

If no one is scanning those QR codes then they are useless. There is a MASSIVE difference between marketers adopting QR codes and regular everyday people adopting qr codes. If I asked my family and a bunch of my friends, I would almost guarantee you that if shown a QR code, none of them would be able to tell me what it is. They might say "yeah, I have seen those things around" but they wouldn't know what they are for or how to scan them.

And in marketing speak... that is a FAIL! F.A.I.L. FAIL!

You guys can go on and on about how effective you THINK QR codes are but the reality is very different. Effectiveness cannot be measured by the number of people using them in their advertising campaigns. How effect they are comes down to how many people know what they are and know what to do when they see one. Right now that is a very tiny amount of people.

You can sit here and argue all you like. But trying to prove your point on a forum will not make QR codes anymore effective than they already aren't.

It's time to move on boys.

TequilaShot · 4th Oct 2012, 03:38 PM

Originally Posted by John Ayling

I think it's important to understand why QR codes have not been adopted so readily rather than vehement Yes! or No! comments.

John - curious to hear your take on why QR codes have not been adopted...

Personally - I had no clue about QR codes until I got interested in mobile marketing. Once I learned what they are and once my son got a QR code reader and showed me how to use it, I have to admit I love it and much prefer to scan then to type in a url (I truly dislike typing in urls into those little devices, but mind you, I am not from a 'mobile born generation' that can text like the wind...)

Coming to think about it - how is one expected to ever figure out what a qr code is without education? they look like an unattractive, unfamiliar bar code, they require a special reader to scan it and they don't even have their name mentioned anywhere - so even if one decides to do a search, they wouldn't know what to search for...

I think that if, when they originally came out, like mentioned above - there was a line above or below the code saying 'scan this qr code with a qr code scanner (download free at the app store) to get special discount' then people would have caught up faster on the function of this odd looking code.

rayalleninc · 5th Oct 2012, 01:21 AM

Originally Posted by freeburd

I would not call QR codes a gimmick, but I will not use QR codes extensively in my own marketing campaigns or my clients' marketing campaigns. I would rather get $$$ in my and my clients' pockets instead of spending money to educate people about QR codes.

We are not dealing with technically proficient crowds of people. We are rather dealing with people that have only 1 question: what's in it for me?

Very Ture! I think these qr codes are on their way out anyways!

MoBuzz · 5th Oct 2012, 11:30 AM

I seen a commercial yesterday where they showed a QR code up in the corner the last few seconds. All I could think is WTF. Who in the hell is going to grab their phone and run over to the TV and scan it lol.

Call it a "gimmick" or a "tool" or whatever. The truth is that if you are taking up advertising space on your clients campaigns for this you are prob wasting their money. I have found that using that space for an SMS campaign or an offer ect is way more effective.

There have been a few times when I have gotten OK results. Here are some tips.
Do
1. Use a custom designed QR Code
2. Use to promote a contest. Scan to win ect. Include Instructions under QR code
3. Use when targeting the 15-25 age group.
4. Add to back of biz card
5. Always include the URL

Do Not

1. Waste valuable space on a clients ad for this. If you have extra space throw one in (after all they are free) but do not design an ad around a QR code. (yes i have seen this done many times)

2. Do not exchange a QR code for including the actual URL on a ad. (yes have seen this too???)

3. Most important DO NOT lead your client to think this is going to drive in the leads, you will only look foolish in most cases.

4. I can not believe that I need to say this but I see it all the time. Do not create a QR code leading to a non mobile optimized site.

I do not think the problem with QR codes is that "people do not know how to use them" trust me the younger generation in particular knows what they are. They just do not serve any purpose other than being "kinda cool"

Maybe if phone makers include a QR Code App already installed on phones when you purchase them, it may help. But for now only 5 to 10 % of smart phone users
have one.

Scott Stevens · 7th Oct 2012, 04:22 AM

Originally Posted by WillR

That's how it SHOULD be done. You would be amazed how many people do not include a link below their QR code though -- and it's killing their conversions.

I quite agree.

Scott Stevens · 7th Oct 2012, 10:17 AM

Originally Posted by KingMedia

QR codes can be great... IF the general public knew how they worked and IF businesses would STOP using them incorrectly (no action, no mobile site, etc).

I always put a URL under the qr code itself or say "why" you need to scan it.

QR codes are on the brink of extinction ...unfortunately.

I create a separate tracking link for the QR code, and for the URL - that way, I can actually track which is being used more. But really, does it matter which is being used more, if both can be used side-by-side, anyway?

As far as I can see, however small the uptake of QR codes is, there IS still a percentage of people using them. And there must certainly be a percentage of people that, were there NOT a QR code in the promotion, they wouldn't bother participating due to them not having the patience to enter a URL.

So with this in mind, does it not make sense to use QR codes, to cater to this small number? If it doesn't detract from the promotion - why not? It's still money in the bank, is it not?

AlisonM · 7th Oct 2012, 10:44 AM

I agree the QR code take up is slow, but QR codes are S-L-O-W-L-Y gaining more prominence...

I was in my local pub today, and there on all the beer mats was a message from CAMRA to "sign the e-petition now & save your pint!" together with QR code and web address.... and it went to a mobile optimised page.

Plus there was also a QR code on the crisp packets for a competition.

The 2 main things I see wrong with QR codes are:

1. the bog-standard ones are UGLY
2. people don't know why they should scan then as there is no "call to action"

so my 2 pleas are - if you are promoting these:

1. create customised codes that look attractive
2. give people a written "call to action" e.g. scan for discount / brochure / prize

Unless newer technology takes over (and I gather that iPhone5 does not have NFC) then it will get there slowly.

(reminds my of a history programme I watched where they were showing a re-inactment of creating coracle boats, and the interviewer questioned whether they would nail the pieces together "oh no, was the reply, nails aren't invented for another thousand years!)

Regards

sqcd · 11th Oct 2012, 06:10 AM

Great stats : )

Think of the QR code as a VIP membership card which you can only get if you are very special. So, the QR Code is not only the gateway to online worlds it is also a direct channel to exclusive content and information. When a consumer scans your Codes make sure that what ever they see cannot be accessed anywhere else except from that particular QR Code on that particular product.

Also, make it very clear that this truly is exclusive content and that they are lucky and very special. When you plan to market a product or service using QR Codes, carefully consider what exclusive content or information you will provide for the person scanning, because if you fail they will never scan again.

wagsgraphx · 15th Oct 2012, 05:44 PM

I scanned a QR code in a magazine for a landscaper and it took me to a non-mobilized site. Plus the code was so small and marginal printing quality, I had a hard time getting it scanned.

aaallday2010 · 22nd Nov 2012, 09:39 AM

In my opinion, the major cell phone companies are to blame for the public's lack of interest for QR codes.

When I bought my droid, it came with a few cool apps, yet not one of them was a QR code scanner.

Apple iPhone is the same way... no included QR Code scanner.

So when a person sees the QR Code, chances are they DO NOT have a QR Code reader installed onto their phone!!

A recent study showed that a majority of the people who even were remotely familiar with the QR code thought it could be scanned with just the camera. They had know idea a separate app was required.

Without them knowing about a sparate app being needed makes the QR code worthless for that person.

They will have to download one from the app store, which means they would need to be near a high speed wifi connection.

But whos gonna go through all that? NO ONE!

I've heard that Droid and Apple are starting to include a QR Code reader in all of their phones now, so maybe in a year or so QR codes will start to catch on.

27th Jun 2012, 01:04 PM	#1
MdJones Active Warrior Join Date: 2011 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 35 Thanks: 0 Thanked 17 Times in 10 Posts	QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: So many people struggle with QR codes, they don't see it working for them or they have no idea how to use them. I have reviewed many of my clients QR code campaigns and I am going to share some stats with you. I pulled 24 campaigns we have worked on in the past yr, and looked at the plain black and white QR code stats, vs designed and branded QR codes stats, and desktop formated site, vs mobile friendly site. What we found is remarkable, the branded designed QR code was 88% more likely to be scanned then the standard free black and white generated QR code. We also found the mobile sites were 71% more effective in people calling to action then the standard desktop formated sites. Pair that up with the popular statistic that conversion rates are 10 times higher on a phone than on the average website, and we have a winning mobile marketing campaign. There is more to this that I have not looked into yet or I don't know, for example, I don't have stats on where exactly in the world these campaigns all took place, all I know the campaigns ran in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, also, I don't know the medias they printed on, it could be magazines, mailers, t-shirts etc. I always recommend printing the QR codes everywhere! If its not out there, it wont get scanned. Also, if it helps at all, coupons were the most effective call to action campaigns. Hope this helps! Thank you
	Custom Branded Handcrafted QR Codes, mobile site builder, loyalty rewards, mobile coupons ad SMSQRlicious Increase mobile conversion rates.

28th Jun 2012, 07:17 AM	#2
martbost Marketer & Entrepreneur War Room Member Join Date: 2010 Location: Moody, AL Posts: 350 Thanks: 21 Thanked 75 Times in 68 Posts Blog Entries: 25	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Thanks for sharing your stats MdJones, it's very useful indeed.
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30th Jun 2012, 09:48 AM	#3
Mr Bill VIP Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2011 Posts: 1,633 Thanks: 1,211 Thanked 952 Times in 497 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Interesting. That's good to know. Some would have us believe that QR codes are worthless, useless and that "no one" knows what they are. Obviously untrue and your research opens a small window into the world of QR marketing and uses. Keep up the good QR work and let us know what else you find.

2nd Jul 2012, 09:00 AM	#4
MdJones Active Warrior Join Date: 2011 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 35 Thanks: 0 Thanked 17 Times in 10 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Thanks, I have looked deeper into the campaigns themselves, because as I said before, I don't know how most are using the QR codes. The stats range all over the place, some campaigns lasted 3 months, and are expired now, others are still alive. One campaign lasted 3 months and had over 1,000 scans between 5 codes, within one week, then pretty much nothing after that. I think the campaign was for an event and it was a scavenger hunt. Another one I will use for example is still active, it's a restaurant, and they put their custom QR code everywhere, table tents, mailers, even employees t-shirts, and they average 3-20+ scan per day which is a good average for a QR code campaign, but again, they put it on everything they print on. For a successful QR code campaign, it has to be well thought out, and pushed hard. I think those who don't succeed don't do either, or just one of those, which isn't enough.
	Custom Branded Handcrafted QR Codes, mobile site builder, loyalty rewards, mobile coupons ad SMSQRlicious Increase mobile conversion rates.

2nd Jul 2012, 09:43 AM	#5
hostwindsEvanM HostWinds Guy Join Date: 2012 Posts: 136 Thanks: 4 Thanked 19 Times in 17 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Good to see some actual numbers being put up. Interesting to see people actually use these things. I am under the impression that 9/10 people don't even know a QR code exists.
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2nd Jul 2012, 09:45 AM	#6
ghostrecon pinpioneer.com War Room Member Join Date: 2011 Location: Commuting between the UK and Australia Posts: 225 Thanks: 77 Thanked 68 Times in 43 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Interesting. I'm not sure why Google/Apple haven't added a QR scanner into their photo app by default, but once that happens I'm sure QR codes will be more widely adopted. Easy Google Analytics integration too!
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13th Jul 2012, 01:46 AM	#11
TrumpiaTim www.trumpia.com War Room Member Join Date: 2011 Posts: 824 Thanks: 2 Thanked 65 Times in 58 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Most QR Codes fail because there's a general assumption that the public knows what to do. For example, if you look in a marketing ad, you'll now see a QR code on the bottom right hand corner. What does this mean to a consumer? Absolutely nothing. We need to currently focus on educating the public on mobile marketing so the adoption of not only QR codes but mobile marketing in general will pick up.
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23rd Jul 2012, 08:19 AM	#13
John Ayling HyperActive Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2009 Location: Australia Posts: 225 Thanks: 41 Thanked 47 Times in 36 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: One thing that may raise the level of discussion re QR Codes is an understanding of the Technology Lifecyle. Technology lifecycle - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - have a look at the graph part way down the page talking about innovation adoption and make up your own opinion about the state of the QR code market. Finding ways to better analyse the market gives you a more rational approach as to whether you decide to invest your efforts in a certain technology or not.
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23rd Jul 2012, 11:16 AM	#14
Darrett Entrepreneur Join Date: 2011 Posts: 118 Thanks: 145 Thanked 10 Times in 8 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: I'm not sure where I stand with QR's. At first I thought they were neat to me but just because I'm a nerd, and that the average person will never catch on. But I am seeing them more and more on all forms of advertisement which must increase exposure and people's curiosity. The biggest setback I see is that people just place them randomly, and with no sort of instructions. A simple "Scan Me" or "Scan Code to Visit Website" seems like it would do a lot better to me. People don't like to think, they like being told what to do.
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23rd Jul 2012, 09:58 PM	#15
WillR Digital Marketer War Room Member Join Date: 2010 Location: Australia Posts: 12,475 Thanks: 1,984 Thanked 8,187 Times in 4,079 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Even when I see QR codes posted on the Internet, I almost always sit there with my mobile phone saying to myself... "Damn, where's the actual link? I'd much rather just type the link in and be done with it." I really do not see them as any big convenience tool. They ARE a gimmick. Pure and simple.
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23rd Jul 2012, 10:42 PM	#16
Darrett Entrepreneur Join Date: 2011 Posts: 118 Thanks: 145 Thanked 10 Times in 8 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Well obviously posting them on the internet is downright stupid. But if you are trying to get them to a video, or a certain page that can have a long url, it is convenient to scan straight to it on a mobile phone. However the inconvenient part is trying to explain how they work to the average person.
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23rd Jul 2012, 11:49 PM	#17
John Ayling HyperActive Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2009 Location: Australia Posts: 225 Thanks: 41 Thanked 47 Times in 36 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: The issue seems to be with a low level of adoption. Some gimmicks that don't appear to have any intrinsic value sell like hot cakes. Maybe if marketers place more emphasis on the customer needs rather than on product attributes, they will make more sales. I think it's important to understand why QR codes have not been adopted so readily rather than vehement Yes! or No! comments.
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24th Jul 2012, 12:15 AM	#19
zoro Online for Offline War Room Member Join Date: 2008 Location: Qld. Australia. Posts: 1,628 Thanks: 351 Thanked 222 Times in 191 Posts Blog Entries: 4	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: I always provide a URL link under the QR Code, Plus a note saying "Scan this with your QR Reader for instant access"

26th Jul 2012, 01:57 PM	#21
KingMedia HyperActive Warrior Join Date: 2009 Posts: 168 Thanks: 33 Thanked 21 Times in 20 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: QR codes can be great... IF the general public knew how they worked and IF businesses would STOP using them incorrectly (no action, no mobile site, etc). I always put a URL under the qr code itself or say "why" you need to scan it. QR codes are on the brink of extinction ...unfortunately.

31st Jul 2012, 12:03 AM	#22
Direct Connect Group Warrior Member Join Date: 2012 Location: Cleveland, OH Posts: 14 Thanks: 0 Thanked 3 Times in 2 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Its true that most of the people are unaware of QR Codes but it depends on the demographics, marketing message and also the type of business. From business point, if you are dealing with B2C then it might not give good results but in case of B2B, you are going to get a good target audience. Marketing messages helps in capturing the attention. In recent times these QR Codes are much into News: "42-foot QR code appeared on the roof of Facebook's new headquarters at 1 Hacker Way" " Volkswagen ran a QR code campaign to promote Crafter, its line of commercial vans." These have been so popular that everyone was keen to know what QR Codes actually does. So there is hardly a scope to think that people are unaware of QR Codes.

31st Jul 2012, 12:21 AM	#23
dslfarms HyperActive Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2011 Posts: 145 Thanks: 2 Thanked 7 Times in 7 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: QR codes are it , i have a local grocery store chain that i added qr's to the advertisement they sent out in a major local sunday paper & their traffic count jumped x 10 for that advertisement alone ,= YEs qr's are BIG if used correctly.
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1st Aug 2012, 04:22 PM	#25
SydMichael Active Warrior Join Date: 2011 Location: Lake Lanier North East of Atlanta Posts: 55 Thanks: 23 Thanked 16 Times in 14 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Great info Mr Jones Thanks!
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1st Aug 2012, 11:51 PM	#26
JulesS Jules Join Date: 2012 Location: Australia Posts: 1 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: MdJones provides some objective analysis and it's good to see this coming forward. I think the jury on QR codes should still be out. To be honest, although I have entirely been an observer rather than an active participant here at the forum, I am prompted to respond in this post as I would have to say some folk perpetuate too much subjective and anecdotal evidence. Sorry WillR, saying it is "fact" does not make it so. Further, I don't agree that QR codes are just a gimmick. I have observed there are way more QR codes appearing than you folk seem to realise. Adoption could well take the path of barcodes on products, that took a while for manufacturers to embrace. The rest of us barely notice them even now but they are still there serving a greater purpose. QR codes are not generally understood but when you guys take the time to reveal the "secrets" behind the codes, you will see the light go on in your client's eyes. There is already very high use of QR codes in real estate publications and numerous other magazines. For example, has anyone here in Australia read the Better Homes and Gardens magazine lately. They started out with QR codes then developed an app to link their printed publication to their website. Most SME's would not have the same requirement as BH&G for an app but the QR code provides that much needed link between traditional marketing using printed media and the revolution that internet marketing provides. As a very longtime business consultant in the offline world, I can tell you that business owners will try new things especially if they don't have to leave the comfort zone of their traditional marketing campaigns. At present, QR codes are just one more "tool" that can be tried, without great expense, to link their promotional materials. Although helpful to be able to track codes it's way too anal to ask the question about the same ad on the same day etc... etc. You would just bog down your marketing team and get analysis paralysis -- For that business owner, it meant he had an increase in "traffic count x 10" That's great news, terrific ROI, it worked!!! Outcome: do more of it. Whether it stays in it's current form or not, I can tell you that businesses will continue to look for ways of integrating their marketing efforts and that in the vast business world out there, marketing is more than just activity on the internet.

2nd Aug 2012, 10:31 AM	#27
MdJones Active Warrior Join Date: 2011 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 35 Thanks: 0 Thanked 17 Times in 10 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Happy to see a down to earth conversation about QR codes here. I would have to totally agree about putting a short URL under or around the QR code, and a call to action as to why people should scan. I recently made a infograph called America's QR Code Crisis, basically going over what's wrong with most of the QR codes out there. I personally cringe every time I'm about to scan a QR code, bracing myself to be disappointed by the content. But what I have noticed, is it isn't a debate of having a link people type in there phone, or have a QR code, because what the QR code does is drive engagement the link can't. For example, I have a sms client building their list via QR code and Phone number, there is 376 numbers on the list, and 184 came from scans on the QR code. People like to be take advantage of technology, and QR codes are a easy way to show it. And scanning a QR code is faster then typing in a link, (yes, i actually timed and taped 2 ppl scanning vs typing in the same short link) and more convenient, but we all have our preferences. If a business can gain one more client from putting a QR code on a ad, then why wouldn't it be worth it? (unless of course the code offers a horrible user experience, in that case, could cost business)
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5th Oct 2012, 11:30 AM	#32
MoBuzz Local Marketing Solutions War Room Member Join Date: 2012 Location: Napa, California Posts: 220 Thanks: 93 Thanked 162 Times in 46 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: I seen a commercial yesterday where they showed a QR code up in the corner the last few seconds. All I could think is WTF. Who in the hell is going to grab their phone and run over to the TV and scan it lol. Call it a "gimmick" or a "tool" or whatever. The truth is that if you are taking up advertising space on your clients campaigns for this you are prob wasting their money. I have found that using that space for an SMS campaign or an offer ect is way more effective. There have been a few times when I have gotten OK results. Here are some tips. Do 1. Use a custom designed QR Code 2. Use to promote a contest. Scan to win ect. Include Instructions under QR code 3. Use when targeting the 15-25 age group. 4. Add to back of biz card 5. Always include the URL Do Not 1. Waste valuable space on a clients ad for this. If you have extra space throw one in (after all they are free) but do not design an ad around a QR code. (yes i have seen this done many times) 2. Do not exchange a QR code for including the actual URL on a ad. (yes have seen this too???) 3. Most important DO NOT lead your client to think this is going to drive in the leads, you will only look foolish in most cases. 4. I can not believe that I need to say this but I see it all the time. Do not create a QR code leading to a non mobile optimized site. I do not think the problem with QR codes is that "people do not know how to use them" trust me the younger generation in particular knows what they are. They just do not serve any purpose other than being "kinda cool" Maybe if phone makers include a QR Code App already installed on phones when you purchase them, it may help. But for now only 5 to 10 % of smart phone users have one.
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7th Oct 2012, 10:44 AM	#35
AlisonM HyperActive Warrior Join Date: 2010 Location: Devon UK Posts: 185 Thanks: 14 Thanked 24 Times in 23 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: I agree the QR code take up is slow, but QR codes are S-L-O-W-L-Y gaining more prominence... I was in my local pub today, and there on all the beer mats was a message from CAMRA to "sign the e-petition now & save your pint!" together with QR code and web address.... and it went to a mobile optimised page. Plus there was also a QR code on the crisp packets for a competition. The 2 main things I see wrong with QR codes are: 1. the bog-standard ones are UGLY 2. people don't know why they should scan then as there is no "call to action" so my 2 pleas are - if you are promoting these: 1. create customised codes that look attractive 2. give people a written "call to action" e.g. scan for discount / brochure / prize Unless newer technology takes over (and I gather that iPhone5 does not have NFC) then it will get there slowly. (reminds my of a history programme I watched where they were showing a re-inactment of creating coracle boats, and the interviewer questioned whether they would nail the pieces together "oh no, was the reply, nails aren't invented for another thousand years!) Regards
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11th Oct 2012, 06:10 AM	#36
sqcd Active Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2011 Location: UK Posts: 33 Thanks: 4 Thanked 4 Times in 4 Posts Blog Entries: 1	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: Great stats : ) Think of the QR code as a VIP membership card which you can only get if you are very special. So, the QR Code is not only the gateway to online worlds it is also a direct channel to exclusive content and information. When a consumer scans your Codes make sure that what ever they see cannot be accessed anywhere else except from that particular QR Code on that particular product. Also, make it very clear that this truly is exclusive content and that they are lucky and very special. When you plan to market a product or service using QR Codes, carefully consider what exclusive content or information you will provide for the person scanning, because if you fail they will never scan again.
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15th Oct 2012, 05:44 PM	#37
wagsgraphx HyperActive Warrior Join Date: 2012 Posts: 140 Thanks: 182 Thanked 40 Times in 34 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: I scanned a QR code in a magazine for a landscaper and it took me to a non-mobilized site. Plus the code was so small and marginal printing quality, I had a hard time getting it scanned.
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22nd Nov 2012, 09:39 AM	#38
aaallday2010 HyperActive Warrior War Room Member Join Date: 2010 Location: Here and there Posts: 306 Thanks: 122 Thanked 33 Times in 30 Posts	Re: QR code and mobile site stats I gathered from my clients campaigns Share on: In my opinion, the major cell phone companies are to blame for the public's lack of interest for QR codes. When I bought my droid, it came with a few cool apps, yet not one of them was a QR code scanner. Apple iPhone is the same way... no included QR Code scanner. So when a person sees the QR Code, chances are they DO NOT have a QR Code reader installed onto their phone!! A recent study showed that a majority of the people who even were remotely familiar with the QR code thought it could be scanned with just the camera. They had know idea a separate app was required. Without them knowing about a sparate app being needed makes the QR code worthless for that person. They will have to download one from the app store, which means they would need to be near a high speed wifi connection. But whos gonna go through all that? NO ONE! I've heard that Droid and Apple are starting to include a QR Code reader in all of their phones now, so maybe in a year or so QR codes will start to catch on.