The Long run of Industry Playing cards: The use of QR Codes, AR, and NFC

With professional exchanges done over email and messaging apps, meetings held over video calls, and connecting with people online before meeting them in person, one may wonder if physical business cards still matter in this age. They do, as research shows that 27 billion business cards are printed daily. Another statistic from Credit Donkey reports that company sales increase by 2.5% for every 2,000 business cards you hand out. Printed business cards are an affordable investment, especially for small businesses that are careful with their budget. But to maintain the printed card’s relevance in a digital landscape, you’ll need to innovate them with the following technologies. These three technologies are easy to include on your printed card and double a customer’s impression of your brand.

QR Codes

You typically see QR codes on ads like promotional announcements or interactive campaigns. They’re also used in mobile phone applications that provide users with information. When printed on your business card, the QR codes can give recipients access to digital platforms like a website with your contact information, a portfolio of your products, or social media accounts. Imagine handing out your business card and having the recipient access the QR code. If they decide to load the linked information then and there, you can discuss your portfolio of items or highlight one post on your Instagram. And even if they choose to access it long after meeting you, recipients can access an updated link. This ensures recipients save and always have your latest number and email address on their phone, even when the printed information is no longer updated.  

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality integrates computer-generated content into the real world. A famous example is Pokémon Go, where you head to a physical location, and the Pokémon will appear on your camera as if it’s in that very place. You can trigger the AR with a QR code or transform your innovative business cards into a unique marker. A markerless experience requires a QR code scan, while a marker-based experience involves opening a link with the QR code or simply clicking the provided link. Once recipients scan the code or open the link, they can start interacting with the AR experience. 

 Use AR’s interaction and 3D view on a business card to your advantage. Showcase a visual portfolio of your products or, if the budget permits, have the CEO talk about the company’s story. Having users view these experiences on their phones brings a personalized touch they’ll surely remember. 

Near Field Communication (NFC)

 NFC technology allows two electronic devices to communicate from 4 cm or less. You typically experience NFC when using your photo to buy something, as seen in Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Samsung Pay. It also transfers data between gadgets or pairs Bluetooth devices like speakers and headphones.  

 NFC tags readily enhance your business card. Once someone taps their NFC-enabled smartphone on the business card’s tag, the information paired with this will automatically be saved in their device. Your business card’s contact information—email, a number, and website address—can be saved in the potential client’s smartphone. We recommend linking the tag to your digital business card so that all the necessary information is readily available. 

Bridge the Gap Between Two Coexisting Worlds

People continue to shift between experiences exclusive to the real world and engaging in virtual ones on their devices. AR, QR, and NFC technologies link both worlds when people scan your printed business card. At the same time, the tactile design establishes your brand’s physical presence. Plan your business card around how recipients interact with the brand in both spaces. The physical design layout should always stand out and showcase what makes your business unique. You’ll also need the printed version to appear legitimate and professional at important events like conferences or pitch meetings.

The AR, QR, and NFC technologies come in to enhance the tactile interaction. You can provide more details about your business through AR and QR codes with such an interactive experience. NFC enables an instant save and quick reference if a potential client wants to meet with you immediately. All technologies also expand the kind of content clients engage with, which can be limited on a small, printed business card. The

physical print and digital features work together to leave your brand’s mark in both worlds. For more ideas on including digital engagement on your business card, read the “5 Best Ways to Integrate Online Marketing for Business Cards.”

Design an Innovative Business Card Today

Ready to design innovative business cards that every recipient will remember and be excited to keep? Check out the stunning finishes and custom shapes you can choose from UPrinting’s business cards. A distinct physical design highlights these innovative business card technologies and ensures recipients check out the unique AR, NFC, or QR experience.