There are a number of free apps smart phone users can download to scan QR codes, findable simply by searching in your app store for “QR code scanner” or “barcode reader”. When you use a QR code in your marketing materials, you may want to give directions to customers on how to download a scanner (if they don’t already have one) and how to scan/photograph the code itself.

For your own business, start thinking about how you can take advantage of this engaging, powerful, and versatile tool. What materials could you print it on? Brochures, of course, and some people opt to put them on business cards. Printed advertisements are another popular option, but you can include them on banners, billboard ads—just about anything.

You also have to consider what your business can offer customers to incentivize them to scan your QR code. A coupon or discount, an offer of more information (especially for B2B),  photos, behind-the-scenes, exclusive content, sweepstakes entry, downloadable content, or product information.

Above all, QR codes should offer something of real value that will entice your clients to scan the code (the offer doesn’t need to COST you much, but your clients need to perceive it as valuable).

If you’re not sure where to start, try some out on a smaller scale until you’re comfortable with them. As soon as you start to use QR codes, you’ll want to start using them all over!