QR Codes in the B2B World.

I make no bones about it.  I think QR codes are cool.

I think they immediately elevate the "intrigue" of any form of marketing or communications that uses them.  Beyond appearances, they have some terrific practical advantages as well.  

I have said many times that I do not believe that there is a business or product that could not successfully employ QR codes.  They are that versatile.  To prove my point I recently posted a link to a blog posting titled "101 Uses for Quick Response Codes."  Scroll on down and take a look at it if you haven't already.  It will get the creative juices flowing.

Most of those ideas, however, are centered around direct interaction with the consumer.  QR codes have much to offer the B2B world as well.

I recently spoke with some folks from a medical equipment manufacturer and thought that they should create a code for each product line.  They could then produce "mobile brochures" that could include video and as much or as little of a sales pitch as they wished.  And they could easily and quickly be changed and updated without requiring another run of the printing press. 

A local broadband provider recently complained to me about how cluttered all their ads and print work always seemed to look.  There was just too much information to include.  They were not very inviting to read.  I thought about how clean and appealing print work could be if it simply stated a clever USP and pointed to a QR code that would take the customer to all the information they wanted. 

The examples are endless.  Consider some of these other simple ideas for B2B organizations.

Print codes on the back of your business cards as a way to quickly input all your contact information into the customers cell phone directory. 

Use a code to promote an event you will be attending or a webinar you'll be presenting.

Use a code to enable users to opt-in for emails, view product demos, request additional information.

Use your imagination.  A creative use of a QR code will help you and your company look smart, cutting edge, and it will help you communicate more effectively.

I think QR codes are cool.

— Pete Nikiel combines 20 years of marketing experience with clear, forward thinking.  He is available to help out companies and agencies in a number of different ways.  Think of him as your utility player on call.  If you need any sort of help in marketing, branding and advertising contact Pete.  Freelance.  Project work.  Part time.  Full time.