Using QR codes on business cards

Many organisations make use of business cards and an increasing number of these items make rely on plastic card printing. After all, plastic cards can have a greater impact than regular versions and they tend to stand out from the crowd.

In a recent Guardian article, experts provided tips for charities conce
ing how to bolster their images online and one individual recommended using QR codes on businesses cards.

Abbreviated from Quick Response Codes, these creations consist of black modules that are arranged in a square pattern on a white background. By scanning the codes using smart phones complete with the relevant applications, people can follow links online.

Commenting on the use of these codes on business cards, potentially including plastic cards, Emma Fitzpatrick, marketing co-ordinator at The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust, said: "This is an interesting medium for charities to consider, especially with mobile giving.

"Some charities are considering making business cards with a QR code on the back that can be handed out at events: people can scan them then make a donation at a time that suits them."

Meanwhile, the expert went on to state that social media should not serve to compromise what managers are already doing, but rather to complement it.

Further advice was provided by Ed Cox, managing director at Reason Digital, who said that charities need to make sure they get their websites right.

He added: "People like sharing on social media, but if your content isn't worth sharing, your website won't get the visits from the large networks. Content is king - it's a cliché because it's true."

The marketing possibilities available to organisations these days are many and varied. By making use of effective business cards, including those that feature QR codes and that link consumers directly to charities' websites and so on, managers stand to gain a lot.

Thankfully, the process of sourcing superb business cards, including those that make use of plastic card printing technology, is now easier than ever.