The Photog Formula

I’ve been doing a lot of research lately about different types of promotions and publicity tactics.  I learned a few new things while at NCSL in Washington, D.C. last week and wanted to learn a little more.

One of the coolest things I’ve found is 2D barcodes.  I’ve seen them before, but never really understood what they were or how to use them.

If you haven’t seen one before, here’s an example:

(This is my contact information.)

So I got to thinking.  (I know, scary!)  I’m tired of the same old 8.5×11 sheets of paper hanging on every bulletin board around.  After awhile you become blind to them and they all start looking alike.

So I wanted someway to stand out, yet still be functionable.

2D barcodes to the rescue!!

We are living in a fast-paced technological world now, when faster and simpler is better.  Now I’m not going to debate on whether this is good or bad.  But you should really take a look at your business plan to see if you’re getting left behind.

I just created a mobile version of my website so that people will be able to view it on their mobile devices.  It’s not pretty and needs some serious work, but it’s there.

And now these 2D barcodes can get the visitor to be engaged, at the same time save time.  If someone sees one of these barcodes on a poster, business card, or even a bumper sticker, they can scan it with their smartphone, (sorry only phones with cameras and internet access can play!), and go directly to the page or video that’s linked to the barcode.

All this while they are still walking down the street!  No need to remember a website, phone number, or contact details.  Brilliant!

I’ve already decided to put one on the back of my business cards that links to more information about myself and my business.  I’m also developing contests, special deals on services, creating tutorials that will only be accessible through one of these barcodes.

So if you’d like to learn more about these, just Google 2D Barcodes.  Or you can visit these sites:

• www.i-nigma.com
• www.snapmaze.com
• www.kaywa.com
• www.neoreader.com
• www.beetagg.com (I use this one)

One other note, you might need to download the free software to your phone before you can scan the barcodes.  But it’s free and simple to use.

So if you see a barcode on one of my sites, make sure you scan it.  You could win something!!

To get you started, scan this barcode for my contact information that you can add to your phone with one click!

NOTE: “Scanning” simply means launching the barcode reader application, which in turn starts your camera.  Then just snap a picture and the application does the rest!