The world is going paperless! We have heard that for years, and while the world hasn’t completely given up on paper yet, more and more of our lives have become digital. Smartphones have revolutionized the way people keep track of their lives. We are able to pay with our phones and keep our calendar in order. Additionally, it has changed the way people shop for goods. Digital coupons and rewards can be sent via email or text and then displayed in a web browser. Another other option is to have an app built for coupons and reward programs.
Data is Power
So much of the business world is now driven by data. Having data is power. Being able to understand, react and even predict customer behaviors should be a focus of your company. Digital coupons can help with this.
In the past, printed coupons typically had the same barcode on them. If anything, specific barcodes were used to determine which channel was used to distribute them. For example, a coupon in the newspaper would have a different barcode than the one found at the store. This way marketing could tell how successful the newspaper was at getting people into the store.
Digital coupons take that even further and can be personalized for each and every recipient. The coupon can be sent out at different times based on when you think the customer will most likely see it. This way you can track which customers use it and when. Then you can build out profiles about each customer. This is powerful data; you can eventually start making more and more informed decisions based on their behavior.
Scanning and WiFi
Digital coupons are a great way to reach more customers, build loyalty and gather data but you must also make sure you have installed the right systems to allow it to work. Traditional scanners do not have the ability to scan smartphone screens. It will be necessary to have 2D scanners to read the digital coupons off of the screen. These scanners are also capable of reading traditional barcodes and QR codes. Another area to review would be the wireless network in your business. Providing new ways for your customer to save is great, but along with that will come the expectation that they will be able to use WiFi in your store to access the coupon or app – especially if your store has poor cell phone reception.
Paper isn’t dead but it is limping and breathing heavily. It won’t be long until traditional coupons are completely gone, so it may be wise for your company to embrace digital coupons and the solutions that come along with this.