Bitly

Short links and QR codes with tracking built in

Bitly is a link management platform used to shorten web addresses, create branded links and QR codes, and measure how many people click or scan them. The company says its service has been adopted by millions of users over more than a decade, and that it is more than a link shortener, since the aim is to tie a marketing effort to measurable results. It offers a free tier to start, as well as a quote route for larger buyers.

Branded links

Each campaign can have polished short links on a custom domain with custom endings, known as back-halves. A branded link tells the person clicking where it comes from and gives the owner a stable address to share across email, social posts and print. The company describes the product as a way to create branded links for digital marketing campaigns.

Dynamic QR codes

The platform generates QR codes that can be updated after they have been printed, which means the destination can change without reprinting. Colors, patterns and logos are customizable so that the code matches a brand, and bulk creation is available for firms that need many codes at once, for example across stores or products.

Analytics

The reporting view is meant to show what is working across links and QR codes. It breaks activity down by geography, referrer and device, includes campaign performance and UTM parameters, and adds AI-powered insights. The company publishes annual totals of links and QR codes created, and clicks and scans recorded. Bitly also connects with a large number of apps and workflows, so that the data can feed other systems.

Use by sector

The website sets out how different businesses use it.

• Retail: connecting in-store and online customers, from small shops to large department stores.
• Consumer packaged goods: giving shoppers a direct route to learn about products and interact with a brand.
• Hospitality: easy digital options for guests, such as menus and information.
• Entertainment: interactive brand experiences at home, in the theater or at the arena.
• Technology: ways for customers to click, scan and reach information when they need it.
• Healthcare: patient communication, from care instructions to appointment scheduling.
• Insurance and financial services: less paper, easier payments and direct contact with agents or claims staff.

Research

The company also publishes research on consumer expectations, including a report on what people want from digital interactions compared with what they get.

Bitly is a link management platform. It is used to make short branded links and QR codes, and to see how many people click or scan them.

Main features

• Branded short links: custom domains and custom endings for each campaign.
• QR codes: dynamic codes that can be updated later, with colours, patterns and logos, and bulk creation.
• Analytics: clicks and scans by geography, referrer and device, plus campaign and UTM reporting and AI-based insights.
• Connected apps: links up with many other apps and workflows.

Customers and markets

Businesses of many kinds, including retail, consumer goods and hospitality, as well as small firms and individuals.

Key facts

• Usage: the company describes its service as used by millions of people for over a decade.