Billboards have been around for decades, but now they’re getting a digital makeover because of QR codes. Let’s suppose you are driving down the highway, spotting a massive ad, and instead of just reading a tagline, you can scan a code and unlock a secret offer or even shop right then and there. That’s the magic of QR codes in billboard advertising.
They’re not just for your grocery store coupons anymore. If you use the right approach, these little squares can turn a standard billboard into a full-on interactive experience. Of course, to get the most out of this tech trend, it’s crucial to follow the best practices for QR code marketing on billboards. Get the design, placement, and call-to-action right, and you’ll have people scanning your ad faster than you can say “discount.” In this blog we’ve discussed why QR codes are the future of billboard advertising, and how you can use them like a pro.
What is QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a type of scannable barcode that can store information like a website link, discount, or even a video. When you scan a QR code with your smartphone, it instantly redirects you to the content it holds. Think of it as a shortcut between the physical and digital worlds, without needing to type anything into your phone.
In the context of QR codes in billboard advertising, they offer a powerful way to make traditional billboards interactive. Simply scanning the code, passersby can instantly access offers, websites, or even a brand’s social media pages. And when it comes to QR codes in digital billboards, they become even more dynamic, linking to real-time promotions or changing content, making the billboard a live, responsive experience. QR codes make it easy for advertisers to track engagement and provide a more personalized, engaging experience for their audience.
Also Read: AR/VR Advertisement, Is it worth it?
Benefits of Using QR Codes in Billboard Advertising
| Benefit | Explanation |
| Increased Engagement | QR codes make billboards interactive, encouraging people to scan for more information, offers, or promotions. |
| Trackable Data | QR codes can help you to track how many people scanned your ad, where they were, and what actions they took helping you measure success. |
| Cost-Effective | Adding a QR code to a billboard is an affordable way to make it interactive without huge additional costs, maximizing your ad’s impact. |
| Connects Physical to Digital | QR codes in billboard advertising create a bridge between the physical world and online content, allowing instant access to websites or offers. |
| Instant Access to Information | QR codes allow consumers to instantly access websites, promotions, or product details without needing to search for them. |
| Boosts ROI | Tracking engagement and driving conversions through QR codes, advertisers can see a direct return on their investment in real-time. |
| Customization | QR codes can link to personalized experiences or region-specific content, making them more relevant and appealing to the audience. |
Benefits of Using QR Codes in Billboard Advertising are clear, more engagement, better data, and an overall more effective way to connect with your audience.
Types of Billboard Advertising Where QR Codes Can Be Used:
Traditional Billboards
These are the classic, large static billboards you see along highways or in cities. QR codes can be added to these billboards to drive people to websites, offer discounts, or even provide event information.
Digital Billboards
Unlike traditional billboards, digital billboards change content regularly. QR codes on these ads can be updated in real time, offering different promotions or messages based on the time of day or audience.
Transit Advertising
QR codes can be placed on buses, trains, or subway stations, allowing commuters to scan the code while waiting or during their commute to access deals or event details.
Event & Sports Billboards
Billboards at concerts, sports events, or festivals can use QR codes to offer ticket sales, exclusive content, or live updates, engaging people right where the action is.
How to Implement QR Codes on Billboards?
| Step | Explanation |
| Define Your Goal | Decide what action you want your audience to take when scanning the QR code, like visiting a website, accessing a discount, or learning more. |
| Choose the Right QR Code Type | Use static QR codes for fixed links or dynamic QR codes for real-time updates. Dynamic codes are great for QR codes in digital billboards. |
| Design for Visibility | Ensure the QR code is large enough to be scannable from a distance. Avoid cluttering the design, and place it in a clear, visible spot. |
| Add a Clear Call-to-Action | Include a simple message like “Scan to Save” or “Learn More” to encourage users to engage with the QR code. |
| Test Before Launching | Test the QR codes in real-world conditions to ensure they work properly on different devices and are scannable from various distances. |
| Monitor and Optimize | Track the performance of your QR codes in your OOH advertising campaigns, and use the data to adjust and optimize your campaign for better results. |
Also Read: Average Cost of Billboard Advertising in Canada
Challenges and Limitations of Using QR Codes in Billboard Advertising:
While QR codes are effective, there are some hurdles to keep in mind:
- Not everyone knows how to use a QR code, or they might not have the right app to scan it.
- If the QR code is too small or hard to spot, it won’t be effective. It’s important to test and optimize for visibility.
- There’s always the risk of QR code fraud, where malicious parties could replace the code with one that leads to a harmful website. Ensure your codes are secure and provide clear guidance on how to use them safely.
Real-World Examples of QR Codes on Billboards
Coca-Cola’s “Personalized Bottles” Campaign: Coca-Cola used QR codes on billboards to allow people to create personalized bottles by scanning the code and entering their names online. The campaign was a massive success, engaging customers and driving sales.
Nike’s Interactive Sports Billboards: Nike incorporated QR codes in their outdoor ads that led to exclusive sports content, training tips, and workout videos, enhancing brand engagement.
Conclusion:
The way brands interact with their audience is changing because of QR codes in outdoor ads. Billboards can be turned from static ads to engaging experiences that drive real-time involvement by adding a simple but powerful code that can be scanned. Still, if you want to get the most out of this tech, you should stick to the best ideas for QR code marketing on signs. Make sure you can see the code, include a clear call to action, and use real-time data to improve your marketing. If you plan and carry out your strategy carefully, QR codes on signs can help you connect with your audience in a more personal, measured, and effective way, which will make your advertising more effective.
FAQS
QR codes are scannable images that direct users to a webpage, video, or promotion when scanned with a smartphone camera. They bridge the gap between offline and online experiences.
A QR code should be large enough to be easily scanned from a distance. As a rule of thumb, it should be at least 10% of the billboard’s height.
Absolutely, Digital billboards are ideal for QR codes because you can easily update the linked content in real time, making it perfect for dynamic campaigns.
Consumers benefit from instant access to offers, information, or events, while advertisers gain trackable data, higher engagement, and a more interactive campaign.