ColorCodes – Next generation QR codes…
For those of you that doesn’t know what ColorCode technology is – here’s a brief overview: ColorCode Technology uses symbols like the ones below; they connect consumers to content on the internet via camera enabled mobile phones and PDA’s – basically it’s the gateway to the internet for mobile. The free software called ColorCam, can be easily downloaded onto a mobile phone to provide instant access to content by “capturing” a ColorCode. In Singapore all Sony Ericsson phones are preloaded with the software and the newest numbers shows that the software is installed on more than 1 million handsets.
ColorZip Media introduced the ColorCode Technology back in 2004 and launched in Japan in 2005 (Main investing companies; Adobe, Fuji TV, TBS). Currently the company is expanding throughout South East Asia through partnerships and next up is US and Europe.
The great thing about these codes compared to QR codes is that they can be made in so many eye-catching designs on any surface and from any material; ColorCode’s can be basic or designed to an advertiser company name because each cell in a ColorCode needs to display only 40% of the identifying color, allowing superimposition of advertiser logos, products and images. Altogether the 5×5 cells and 4-colors = 17 billion variants!
So why should you or your clients use ColorCodes:
- It’s simple and easy to use
- ColorCode’s can be used in any media and on almost any surface
- ColorCode designs are easy to recognise
- ColorCode’s connect consumers to any form of content
- Code’s transform any analogue media into a digital platform i.e. allowing print to become TV
Because the service is real-time, the content linked to the code’s can be changed 24/7. The service can capture and track user data which means it’s an ideal CRM tool and the possibilities for use is endless: Product/service information, Coupons, Streaming, Video TV commercials, Music downloads, Product info/discount offers, Movie trailers, Movie Tickets, Data collection opportunities etc.
From my perspective ColorCodes or QR codes should definitely be used by all clients in markets where the software has a reasonable penetration. The great thing about these codes are that you are actually able to interact with you target audience through analogue media (like newspaper, magazine, outdoor etc.) and the best part –It’s ALL measurable, so you can now see which media performs and optimize your buys (as the case is with digital campaigns…)
