Quick Response Codes! I think they are also called ‘Semapedia Tags’. They are those two-dimensional, square bar codes, with lots of tiny boxes, that can be read by most smart phones. You put them on physical things, like business cards, posters, t-shirts, books, stickers (to stick on things!), billboards, etc.
The smart phone user scans the code… and POOF!
There are a number of things that can happen. They can instantly “Like” your Facebook page, tweet a pre-composed message (you create it!), and much more. QR codes can also work with YouTube, websites and blogs. You can also just make it into a message that shows up on their phone when it is scanned.
For example, the code below links to my Facebook page:
How do you get one? Easy! Go to http://www.qurify.com/en/
According to Qurify.com:
What is a QR Code?
QR Codes are 2 dimensional barcodes that are easily scanned using any modern mobile phone. This code will then be converted (called “dequrified”) into a piece of (interactive) text and/or link. For instance, you walk around in the city and notice a poster for an event that seems interesting. You take out your mobile phone, scan the QR Code and will instantly get more information and a link to a website where you can book your tickets. You don’t have to type or remember anything and because QR Codes can be very small, this saves a lot of space on the product as well.
What to do with QR Codes?
By creating your own QR Codes (called “qurifying”) you can make whatever you want more interactive. Put one on your business card, on flyers for a party or poster to promote your products or services. Or use them to help sorting your books or CD’s, put them on your keys or tools so you know what they are for. Just qurify any text or website URL, put the QR Code on a product and make everything you have more interactive!
Have you used QR Codes?
I am totally new at this, so please share any experience you have had – advice and suggestions greatly appreciated!
Tips from the Curiosity Quills Team
We use QR codes extensively in our physical real-world marketing over at Curiosity Quills, including business cards, flyers, book jackets, and so on – it’s just too good to pass up.
There is a great list of QR-code-related resources to be found at http://2d-code.co.uk/qr-code-generators - check them out and see what you can use them for!
About the Author
Curiosity Quills is a gaggle of literary marauders with a bone to grind and not enough time for revisions.
