It goes without saying that technology is an astounding application of scientific knowledge, tapped by an unlimited amount of verticals, including the independent retailer industry. So what technology should independent retailers stay in-the-loop about?
Mobile Phones Bringing QR Codes to a Retailer Near You
As Technology Marketing Corporation Web Editor, Tammy Wolf, explains, “Better known as mobile barcodes, these QR codes – which consist of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background – are decipherable by the latest smartphone devices. Much like a grocery item is scanned at checkout for it PLU (Price-Lookup) code, a QR code ca store a range of valuable information for a mobile user.” The problem, however, many mobile phone users and independent retailers don’t realize the full potential of this newer technology.
Why the necessity to study up on these two-dimensional barcodes you might ask? Advertise, advertise, advertise!
Independent Retailers Become Updated and Interactive
It’s all about using the resources you have and shining them in a new light. Utilizing print media, but feeling the pressure of interactive online advertising? Make your traditional print media more interactive. Many media companies and marketers use the QR Code as a means to create and manage measurable 2D barcode campaigns, extending brand engagement to consumers’ smartphone enabled lifestyles.
For instance, Home Depot is offering to its do-it-yourself builders and home owning customers a taste of the new technology. Technology Marketing Corporation Contributor, Michelle Amodio, details Home Depot’s plan, “In an effort to give customers more relevant information on product reviews, how-to guides and videos…2D barcodes will be placed in direct mail pieces linking to product information and video demos….” It’s no longer Do It Yourself with a hammer and nail, but with a data plan and camera phone as well.
Business Update: How Are Smartphone Users Taking to the New Technology?
After a short study between the months of January and March 2011, Scanbuy, Inc., a provider of mobile barcode solutions, has issued a third ScanLife Mobile Barcode Trend Report. Some of the key highlights of the report included: traffic increased over 800 percent within a year’s time; retail and media industries generated some of the most scanned 2D barcode campaigns; and everyday products continue to deliver exactly half of all UPC scans from Scanbuy’s ScanLife app.
To learn more QR codes read TMC’s Mobile Barcode Trends article. To learn more about the details and highlights of Scanbuy’s recent technology trend study click HERE.