Earlier this year, I talked about the creative way in which Editoras Online integrated QR technology and Twitter to create a stunning viral-marketing campaign.  Now, Google fans across the country may soon have an opportunity to interact with QR technology through Google’s latest endeavor called Favorite Places.

What is “Favorite Places”?  Well,  according to Google:

Over 100,000 businesses were identified as Favorite Places. The list was determined based on the popularity of a business’ Local Business Center listing, as determined by how many times Google users looked for more information about a business, requested driving directions to get there, and more. Google users “decided” based on their actions, and we sent the decals.

What exactly does this mean for the average consumer?

The good…

It means that the most popular (i.e., searched) businesses across the U.S. may soon be equipped with a window decal containing a unique bar code, known as a QR code.  So, what’s the big deal?  Well, a major benefit of integrating QR codes into print ads is convenience.  QR technology is all about pointing and scanning, which eliminates the need to type in lengthy URLs.   Bottom line, it’s simply a faster way to deliver relevant content to a mobile device (e.g., reviews, ratings, special promotions, or store coupons if a particular business is offering one).

The bad…

Unlike the ubiquitous nature (and advantage) of using SMS, QR codes reach a limited audience.  For now, users with smart phones that have good quality cameras, and have previously located, downloaded and installed the QR software will get the desired results. There are many free and paid QR readers available on the market.  Some of the newer mobile devices have QR readers installed or bundled as part of another application.

Want to add a QR reader to your mobile device? Here are some common QR readers to consider:

» 2dSENSE» Barcode Scanner
» Beetagg
» Kaywa Reader
» Neoreader
» QRApp
» QuickMark
» ScanLife

Google’s move towards integrating QR codes is yet another example of how mobile technology can be used in everyday real-life scenarios. Although QR technology may not appear as “hip” as image recogition, it’s still a valuable technology that we should not overlook.

Google, Yahoo and MSN/Windows Live were the most popular websites in 2008; Yahoo Mail, Google Search and Gmail were the top mobile websites; and the Motorola (MOT) RAZR V3 series was the most popular cell-phone handset, according to The Nielsen Company, which released its annual “Top 10″ internet and mobile website rankings for the year.

The article has some interesting stats and tables.

Top 10 Internet and Mobile Sites, Handsets – Seeking Alpha.

Consider this scenario…

It’s been a tough day. You are running late for your first lunch meeting with that new (key) client. Earlier, you were careful to write down the address and directions. The problem? You left the notes of your meeting location on your office desk, you’re now running behind because of traffic, and you do not have GPS.

I guess now is a good time to panic? Well, rather than dialing 411, you could try free voice-driven search services offered by either Tellme, or Google’s Mobile App.

Tellme.com

“Tellme’s vision is, ‘Say what you want and get it, on any device.” From ‘vision’ to reality, Tellme has already delivered over 2 billion voice searches results for millions of mobile subscribers. See the following video made courtesy of Pocketnowvideo:

Google Mobile App

“Faster search results with fewer keystrokes.” The video below provides an overview of the new Google Mobile App for the iPhone. The App allows mobile users to speak versus typing their search queries.

As a Recruiter, how can voice-driven search help you?

Let’s assume you are out of the office, waiting on an appointment and have a little time to spare. You are sourcing for potential prospects with .NET architecture and SharePoint experience who live in the New York region.

» Step 1: Grab your mobile device and get started. Using either the Tellme or Google’s Mobile App, try speaking your search query as follows: “Resumes, NET Architects, SharePoint, New York.”

» Step 2: Filter the “noise.” Your search results will vary and likely not be exactly what you were seeking the first time you try it. The results may even contain job posts or other unwanted noise. You may need to retry your search query using additional keywords to narrow down what you are seeking. Be specific as possible with your voice-search. Also, speaking clearly, and in some cases – speaking slowly, is often important to ensure the mobile app has successfully captured your exact search query.

Remember, voice-driven search is pretty “hip” technology but it’s still far from perfect. As with all new technology, it will take time for it to evolve and get better. So get comfortable now and think of the possibilities. Mobile is the future…

15 Tech Secrets for the Serious Road Warrior – Business Center – PC World.

Three years into the job as Microsoft’s chief software architect, Raymond Ozzie is on a path to overhaul how the company designs and sells the software that makes its monster profits.

Cloud Control – Forbes.com.

A report by Universal McCann found that consumption of content outside of websites has increased by 153% in the last nine months. 53% of online users are consuming content outside of a publisher’s site.

Compared to a year ago, the way I consumed content has changed significantly from visiting websites to getting it delivered through RSS feeds, Twitter, messengers, emails and my mobile phone. I now expect information to come to me wherever I am, whenever I need, delivered through the medium of my choice.

If you are a talent solutions provider whose business model depends solely on candidates visiting your website, it’s time to rethink strategy. Ditto for employers. Recruiting in the brave new world (populated by smart phones) will be more about reaching talent wherever they are, with whatever medium of their choosing.

Read original post here »