QR Code Done Right at @AJBombersMSN – AJ Bombers Madison

QR Code - AJ Bombers - Madison, WIIf you follow me on Twitter, you probably know I’m not a big fan of QR codes. The reason is that I always see people using them who just don’t understand them. Of course, there’s an exception to every rule, and I found a great exception at AJ Bombers in Madison, WI today.

Joe Sorge, the amazing owner of AJ Bombers, invited me to stop by today to see his newest restaurant in downtown Madison, WI, and this was one of the first things I noticed. The restaurant doesn’t open until later this month, and to satisfy the curiosity of passers-by, he posted this sign in the window.

When I scanned the QR code with my smart phone, it took me to the AJ Bombers Madison Facebook page for more information. Not my favorite choice for a QR code landing page, but in the case of AJ Bombers it makes sense, because Joe built AJ Bombers with nothing but great service, a fun atmosphere, and social media.

This is a great example of how to use a QR code the right way. Rather than jumping on the QR code bandwagon, and posting one on your website, think about how people use them. Why would you post one on on a website, forcing your visitors to find their smart phones, fire up their QR code scanners, scan the code, and view the link on their phones? Ever heard of a hyperlink?

QR codes are intended for print applications, and preferably, they should take you to a page that’s optimized for a mobile device.

Scott Stratten, the author of Unmarketing: Stop Marketing. Start Engaging (affiliate link), recently posted a great video on YouTube about real estate agents and their use of QR codes. Check it out:

Click here if you can’t see the video.

Do you have any great examples of how to do QR codes the right way? If so, please share them in the comments.

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About Collin Kromke

I am a social media administrator for a Fortune 500 insurance company by day, and a husband, father, blogger and photographer the rest of the time. My passion for social media, digital marketing, and photography is infectious, so don't forget to wash your hands after reading.
   
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  • http://linkedin.com/in/joesorge Joe Sorge

    Collin, 
    Thanks so much for the post. I love Scott’s points in the video and certainly subscribe to that thinking. While this code did direct scanners to the FB page it was surprising the amount of work that I had to do to have them land on the right tab with the right information that was also mobile friendly. Facebook changing things daily certainly didn’t help :) 

    We’ve got some really fun plans coming up for the MSN location and can’t wait for you to take it all in. 

    Thanks again for this exposure Collin. 

    Joe

    • http://socialposer.com/ Collin

      You’re welcome, Joe. Now get back to work so I don’t have to wait longer than necessary for a great burger!

  • http://www.twitter.com/unmarketing unmarketing

    ” because Joe built AJ Bombers with nothing but great service, a fun atmosphere, and social media.”

    Ya left out great food :) None of that counts without a good product.

    And thanks for the props my man.

    • http://socialposer.com/ Collin

      Oh yeah. Food! And Schlitz Tall Boys! Thanks for stopping by Scott. Haven’t chatted in a while.

  • http://dougridley.wordpress.com Doug Ridley

    Collin, 

    Thanks for sharing this QR example and the video. People need to listen and execute or not use QR codes at all. It’s ruining people’s interest and desire to scan.

    Doug  

    • http://socialposer.com/ Collin

      I agree 100% Doug. That’s why I get so frustrated over bad implementations. It was soooooooo nice to see a great example for once.

  • Kate Manning

    Hi,
    My name is Kate and I happened upon your site a little while ago and
    was really impressed by the quality of your content. I would love a
    chance to contribute to your site. Please contact me if that’s something
    you would be interested in.

    • http://socialposer.com/ Collin

      Sorry, Kate, but I’m not taking on guest bloggers at this time. Thanks for visiting, though.

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