QR Codes any real benefits?

They were cool when I first learned of them, just because it was something different. I still don't see the big deal about a QR code, seeing that my main mobile marketing thrust is SMS text marketing. 9 out of 10 people, when asked or shown, won't even know what a QR code is. Even if they did, they have to have a smartphone. If they have a smartphone, they need the app to make it work. If you have a smartphone with a QR code scanner, you'd better be in an area with WIFI or 3G/4G coverage. If you have folks scanning a QR code that takes someone to a mobile site and it takes forever to load, then it's really pointless, at least frustrating.

Besides, most (if not all) that own a cell phone know how to text and understand how it works...smartphone or not.

These that are pushing WSOs and/or selling QR codes to local businesses are really just blowing smoke. It's ok for a foot in the door, a lead-in, or a conversation starter, but not something to base an entire business on. I can see the uses, but I can't help but roll my eyes when they're made to be a big deal...and yes, I am VERY familiar with all their uses.

In my opinion, SMS marketing > QR codes. I can do anything (and more) with SMS that can be done with QR codes, and it's not as confusing or as potentially frustrating.

It all depends on your market. If you are in a major metropolitan area there are a lot of people with smart phones. A lot of those people have a QR code scanner on their phone. The reason people sell this service is that most business owners don't know, don't care and don't want to know how it works and they want YOU to do it.

Today I built a "Special Offer" FB fan page, made a QR code and designed a flyer for a client. We've been friends for years and he knows how to do everything I do because I taught him.

He is busy running his business! He called me to do it. He specifically wanted the QR code because a lot of people in his market use it. If you are going to use a QR code it is important to put instructions on how to use it next to QR code for people who don't know what it is. People with smart phones LOVE using new apps. It is also important to put the URL in case they don't have a smart phone.

Here are the instructions:
1.To access this page you need a smart phone.
2.Go to apps
3.Search for "QR"
4.Once installed Scan the code for a special offer!

That's it. EASY money. This guy is the best client. We NEVER talk price. I just do the work and he sends me a PHAT paypal deposit.

Local SEO Renegade

P.S. You need to have some way of distributing your QR code to your target market. Flyers, post cards, direct mail, business cards, etc.