Everyone thinks they have the magic bullet when they deploy their QR code solution. The problem is, I have yet to hear someone else tell me about an amazing experience they had with a QR code. I haven’t heard about how the QR code truly helped them.

So how are these QR codes making things better? If we’re going to use an otherwise clunky tool such as a QR code, why not do something memorable enough that will make the user tell anyone who ever mentions that brand? Or just mentions the words “QR Codes?”

Here’s the story I’ve told when someone tells me about their new QR code solution. If the end result of your code experiment doesn’t come close to this, I’d try again. (If it’s not helpful, is it at least memorable?)

While taking the Zappos Corporate tour a couple of months ago, I saw a single QR code taped to the wall. Below the image it simply said “Scan me for a secret message.” Who isn’t going to scan this? Curiosity got the best of me and I scanned it.

By the time I scanned it, the six others in my group had already moved on. My secret message: “Ask the closest employee for the chicken head photo opp!” Upon asking, the helpful employee turned around, cupped her mouth and shouted “Chicken Heads!”

Four other employees quickly ducked under their desk and emerged wearing chicken head masks. Boom, photo shot, Zappos memory created and the experience shared online. Best word of mouth creation I’ve seen in a long time.

Well done Zappos.

What other QR codes have you seen that made you want to tell someone about it?