Thursday, August 11, 2011

Nissan, What in the "Bleep" is a QR Code?

Nissan announced this week that they'll be the first OEM to use QR codes across the board on window stickers. Pop quiz, what is a QR code? Go!

If you're like a good portion of the population, you have a vague idea but can't quite put it into words. And for good reason. QR codes have yet to go mainstream. You see them on high-end marketing pieces and in some glossy magazine ads, but I would bet the majority of consumers still don't quite "get it."

QR stands for Quick Response and it represents square "bar codes" on marketing materials.  Readers scan the code into their smart phone and are sent to speciality sites for more information on the product. They look something like this:


The move means interested Nissan shoppers can now scan the codes to find product information, watch videos, request a test drive, find dealer location information and more. Nissan spokespeople call the marketing tool their "silent salesperson" due to the ability to give any information necessary on the vehicle at any time, whether or not a salesperson is present.

There are several pluses when it comes to QR codes, especially in automotive:
  • The codes give users a wealth of additional product knowledge without a salesperson present.
  • Buyers are able to shop "off hours" after the dealership is closed and still get questions answered.
  • The "hip" factor attracts higher-end shoppers and enhances the Nissan brand.
  • Videos, testimonials and more can be added to the sales process.
  • The information stays with the prospect, versus a flyer that can be easily thrown away as soon as they've left the dealership.
I'll be watching the Nissan QR test with interest and would not be surprised to see more OEMs coming on board with QR codes in the future.

Do you think enough of the general population knows what a QR code is and how to use it to make the Nissan move worthwhile?


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