What the Heck is a QR Code?

What the Heck is a QR Code?

Simply put, a QR code (or quick response code) is a little box with black squiggles on it. You’ve probably seen them on the back of ketchup bottles or in newspaper ads. I’ve even noticed them in storefront windows. It seems they are everywhere.

If your smart phone has a QR Code reader, all you need to do is point your phone at the little box, and voila, a website will appear on your phone. The website can give you more information about the product or take you directly to a buy page. I’ve gotten free music samples and book samples from QR Codes. They make great promotional tools.

Where Can You Get a QR Code?

QR codes are free! You can get your own at Kaywa or qrstuff. Then just type in the URL where you want users to go and click generate. Copy and paste the html code into your website or blog. Or save the .jpg to use on bookmarks, etc.

What Can You Do with a QR Code?

Get creative! You can put a QR code on your business cards or postcards. If you are going to a conference, print one on the back of pamphlets or bookmarks to hand out. (I always put leftover bookmarks in with my bills.) Have return address labels printed with your QR code instead of your book cover. Make up a flyer for your book and have the QR code point to where someone could buy your book, then leave a stack at your local comic book store or even in your favorite pizza parlor if you’re friendly with the owner. A bumper sticker would be great, especially if you get stuck in traffic a lot. Or print the QR code on a window cling for your car or home.

There are any number of creative uses for QR codes. I’d love to hear your ideas.