In a previous article I discussed the different types of mobile punch cards. A lot of people have asked me to summarize the pros and cons of paper vs digital cards.
So, here’s my go-to list that hopefully might help you decide between the two options:
Paper Stamp Cards
Pros
- Easy to produce
- Can be relatively cheap (depending on print/design quality)
- Can be designed with a high degree of customization
- Customers "get it" with no learning barrier
- Appeals to non-tech-savvy customers
Cons
- Cannot collect customer info
- Cannot "communicate" to customers through the card
- Difficult to edit program (must reprint)
- Customers lose or forget them
- Difficult to launch advanced programs
- Easy to forge stamps or cards
- Must manage inventory of cards
- No POS integration
One big advantage that paper cards have over digital cards is the tactile “look & feel” a physical card can deliver to your customers. If you’re willing to invest in high quality paper plus an awesome design, handing out a beautiful paper loyalty card can actually enhance the customer’s experience with your brand.
The downside, of course, is that you will be hoping and praying the card stays in your customer’s wallet. You’ll be fighting for precious “shelf-space” in an already crowded purse or wallet.
Digital Stamp Cards
Pros
- Customers never lose or forget
- Edit/change program easily
- No inventory management
- Can be as cheap as paper cards (depending on service)
- Promote directly to customers through their phones (using push notifications, emails, etc.)
- Collect data (build your customer database)
- Can issue Birthday & Welcome gifts
- Generates word-of-mouth referrals
Cons
- May not appeal to older demographic
- Advanced customizations can be difficult
- Relies on tech support for resolving issues (like changing customer cards)
Digital stamp cards are the way of the future. You’ll finally have the digital tools to grab your customer’s attention after they physically leave your store (paper cards can’t do this!). Also, some would argue that digital stamp card systems can help you replace (or reduce) your Facebook and Google advertising costs.
If your customers are ready to embrace what’s coming around the corner, then it’s probably wise to get ahead of the curve and start experimenting with a digital loyalty stamp card now.
The downside, of course, is that you will be dealing with new tech. This can discourage a lot of people. Fortunately, however, loyalty stamp card systems are getting better every day, and it won’t be long until they become super-simple to use.
Good luck with your choice, and may your stamp card always hook your customers!
