Mobile Barcode Promotion
July - August 2011
May 13, 2011
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2D (two dimensional) barcodesA 2D barcode is a graphical image that stores information both horizontally and vertically. As a result of that construction, 2D codes can store up to 7,089 characters, significantly greater storage than is possible with the 20-character capacity of a uni-dimensional barcode.
2D barcodes are also known as quick response codes because they enable fast data access. 2D barcodes are often used in conjunction with smart phones. The user simply photographs a 2D barcode with the camera on a phone equipped with a barcode reader. The reader interprets the encoded URL, which directs the browser to the relevant information on a web site.
Mobile Barcode Promotion
Two-dimensional barcode
What is a Mobile Barcode?
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What is a Mobile Barcode?
Mobile Barcode Promotion
1D (one dimensional) Barcodes1D barcode symbologies only encodes data along the width of the barcode, and
include UPC codes (the bar codes you see on groceries) and seldom represent more
than a dozen characters.
The 1D bar code represents the key to a record in a database, where related
information is stored. The best example is a car licence plate which, by itself, doesn’t
mean much but, when entered into a motor vehicle database, can access all sorts of
information regarding the car it is attached to.
One-dimensional barcode
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Mobile Barcode Promotion
Examples of 2D Barcodes
There are over 20 types of 2D barcodes
Most common types QR Code (Quick Response
Code) Datamatrix Code Microsoft Tag
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Mobile Barcode Promotion Objectives
Promote awareness on ways technology can increase the value of mail
Create excitement about mail; keep mail top-of-mind for marketers
Reward innovative customers
Test ability to offer upfront discount on postage
Engage younger consumers in mail
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Mobile Barcode Program Basics
3% discount at the time of mailing (not a rebate)
Discount for mailings which contain valid 2-dimensional Mobile Barcodes for 2 months (July - August 2011)
First-Class Mail and Standard Mail letters and flats (automation and presort)
Mobile Barcode must be included inside or on outside of mailpiece and used for marketing purposes
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Mobile Barcode Discount Eligibility
All of the following must apply: Mailings paid via permit imprint Mailing submitted using electronic documentation
(mail.dat, mail.xml or Postal Wizard) Meet Mobile Barcode requirements
Must be a two-dimensional barcode 2D code must be readable by mobile device 2D code must be used for marketing purposes
All mailpieces in mailing must contain Mobile Barcodes Non-profit mailings excluded
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Why Mobile Barcodes?
Mobile Barcodes turn interest into action Mobile Barcode on a gym postcard could link
directly to membership renewal Catalog items can be individually coded to bring
customers to purchase directly online, 24 hrs/day Store flyer can link to microsite with mobile
coupons Technology is new and gaining widespread use Integrates mail with mobile technology, makes mail
interactive Mailers can track response rates of mailing
immediately and with much greater detail
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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Mobile Barcodes in Catalogs
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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How to Obtain the Discount
Discount must be selected in incentive drop down menu in edoc submission
At acceptance, clerk will verify presence of barcode:First-Class Mail mailpieces with 2D barcode on the inside
of the mailpiece, the mailer must provide a sample of the mailpiece showing barcode placement
Clerk will take sample of Standard Mail mailpiece to verify barcode present
3% discount will be taken off total postage in PostalOne
The discount must be claimed at time of mailing and cannot be claimed later
Mailer must retain sample mailpiece for each mailing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has the Mobile Barcode Promotion been approved by the PRC?
A: No, the Notice was filed on April 12, 2011 and the PRC has 45 days to respond.
We do not anticipate a response until the end of May.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can customers receive a workshare discount and the mobile barcode discount?
A: Yes, “Workshare discounts” such as destination entry prices, or IMb full-service discounts, are part of the published price schedule and are not considered incentive discounts. If all other program requirements are met, these mailings can qualify for the Mobile Barcode Promotion discount.
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions on where the mobile barcode can be placed?
A: . The mobile barcode can be placed within the mailpiece or on the outside of the mailpiece, but cannot be placed in either the ‘indicia zone’ or the ‘barcode clear zone.’ For further information see DMM Sections 302.5.1 and 202.5.1
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a mobile barcode be placed on a detached address label (DAL) or blow-in card?
A: . Mobile barcodes on the detached address label or on a blow-in card do not qualify for the discount. However, if the mobile barcode is placed on the host piece and all other program requirements are met, the entire postage amount (postage for host piece and DAL) qualifies for the three percent discount.
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Sales Role
Become knowledgeable on the USPS Mobile Barcode Promotion not to sell the promotion encourage the concept
Become knowledgeable in mobile marketing, specifically where direct mail/2D barcodes are applicable what MSPs might be using the technology
Keep prospects and customers aware of and educated on the value of integrating technology and mail.
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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Mobile Barcode Resources
Articles:
Direct Marketing IQ – QR Codes Changing the Way We Access Information
Target Marketing Magazine – Integrating QR Codes Into Your Marketing Mix
Deliver Magazine – Taking Advantage of QR Codes
Search Mobile Computing – What is a 2D barcode?
How to create 2D barcodes:
www.scanlife.com
www.beetagg.com
www.barcode.com
http://tag.microsoft.com/overview.aspx
http://www.idautomation.com/java/dmservlet.html
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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Mobile Barcode Promotion
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More Information
Internet:
www.usps.com/mobilebarcodepromotion
Email:
RIBBs (updated FAQs)
https://ribbs.usps.gov/index.cfm?page=mobilebarcode
Mobile Barcode Promotion
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