MovingCool - www.facebook.com/movingcool.com

With any kind of new technology especially that which falls into the computer realm, you would expect early adopters to be technology companies. For example, with 2D barcodes it's not surprising at all to see Microsoft not only uses 2D barcodes but to be one of the early providers of that technology with Microsoft TAG. Beyond such obvious examples the next prime candidates would be those with very deep pockets and large advertising budgets. We've seen companies in the consumer field such as mass merchandisers and snack food companies, be early to jump on the bandwagon. Example would be Macy’s, Best Buy, Lowes, Frito-Lays and Pepsi-Cola just to name a few. 

Recently, I came across an ad in Plant Engineering, for MovingCool. Not only had they embraced 2D barcodes with an ad using QR code, but they used the barcode to link to their Facebook page. It is clearly an example of a company that gets it and is leaving no stone unturned to reach new customers. At first blush, I had intended to give MovingCool high marks for being an early adopter of the 2D barcodes. After a second look, a name caught my eye. MovingCool is a brand of the Denso Corporation. Anyone who recognizes that name gets two points extra credit for knowing their 2D barcode history. Back in 1994, Denso, a subsidiary of Toyota Corporation started using 2D barcodes to track automotive parts, so it should be no surprise at all that MovingCool would use 2D barcodes for their advertising.

We see so many early adopters making use of 2D barcodes just because it’s something new.  MovingCool must be complemented on the particular way that they have used this interactive link. Potential customers that use the 2D barcode scan are taken to a Facebook page which shows a number of examples of how the company's products are used. The company’s cooling products are shown in a wide range of situations from cooling our bovine friends, to fighting the summer heat and finally to keeping our favorite golf commentators cool while covering this week's tournament. In addition to finding product photos, the most important option allows customers to check out a map to find their local dealer. It's exactly this kind of immediate sales link that will make the 2D barcode a valuable addition to any marketing campaign. Any reader would be smart to follow the MovingCool’s example when it comes to using 2D barcodes.

Best regards,

HV