Mobile Barcode Grader

Your Mobile Barcode Grader

State of Mobile Barcodes Today

Mobile barcodes have passed the tipping point, showing up on billboards, signs, advertisements, even cupcakes. Consumers with smartphones are scanning away to see what lies at the end of the rabbit hole. For the most part it has been one strange trip after another. No pot of gold, no unicorns, no clear benefits, no way to share the wealth, no option for an un-smartphoner, usually awaits. For mobile barcodes to have a significant future, the implementation and marketing has to improve.

How you can help?

The 10 point checks of the Mobile Barcode Grader are a list of the biggest crimes committed in using the barcodes. As you come across mobile barcodes in the wild, snap a picture and send along the corresponding URL to
QR(at)m-bossed.com. The barcodes will be graded on the 10 criteria listed above, so let’s try to find the best of class to promote while seeing how the rest can be improved.

Mobile Bar Code Grader’s 10 Point Check

1. Scan-ability: Can the barcodes be scanned at all?
2. Uses URL Shortener: Has the marketer reduced the barcode complexity by using a URL shortener (easier to scan)?
3. Lists “how-to” Instructions: Not everyone know how to use mobile barcodes, so some indication should be given as to what it is or what to do with it.
4. URL or SMS for un-smartphones: Only about 1/3 of mobile phones are smartphones in the US although the number is growing fast. Listing the short URL or offering a number to text for the information lets you reach the other 2/3.
5. Mobile Optimized: Is the content (landing page) designed with small screens of phones or tablets in mind?
6. Compelling Content: Are you offering value to the consumer or just rerouting like it’s 1999 – broadcast media?
7. Clear Call to Action: You got me here, now what am I supposed to do? Don’t leave it to chance, tell us.
8. Opt-in to collect customer data: You got me here, how can I stay involved? Maybe whitepapers, e-mail, newsletters, or VIP access can keep them involved. Give the consumer a place to leave their contact information.
9. Social Sharing: You got me here, how am I supposed to tell my friends? Have social sharing to the most popular networks built into the landing page.
10. Visually Enhanced: Although not necessary, your mobile barcode could be built with an eye on design. Customized mobile bar codes have been shown to get better response (scan) rates.

Remember to e-mail any mobile barcode examples to
QR(at)m-bossed.com. I’ll be sharing too!