Using QR Codes to promote your web site

Andrea Robinson March 14, 2012 at 1:35pm

I haven't used them for individual pieces, and that's a very interesting idea.

I put them on show fliers to convey directions and such, my email sign-up book (sends you to an online newsetter sign-up form), on jewelry displays for more information on materials. I plan on making stickers, too.

Geoff Coe January 20, 2012 at 11:55am

This is cool stuff, Larry! Way to be cutting edge in your marketing.

I've created my own QR codes now, but I've got a question: If a visitor takes a photo of my QR code(s), what do they then have to do to visit the site? Must they also download the QR scanner app to their phone?

If so I'd also want to give them the link to the QR scanner app.

Jim Parker > Geoff Coe January 20, 2012 at 12:40pm

You need some sort of scanning app. Usually it uses the phone camera, and will redirect to the URL you specify when you make up the code.

I just revised my show postcard with a new QR code that goes to a special landing page for that QR code. It has a sign up link, and some special messaging for first-time site visitors, along with a coupon.

The best way to utilize the QR code from a visitor perspective is to use a scanning app on the phone, rather than to take a picture of it. The scan apps are almost instantaneous, and give you the name of the site, and a choice of whether or not you want to go to the site immediately. And yes, you need a scan app on your phone.

ATT makes a good one for iPhone. It's free. AT&T QR Code Reader

But don't use their code generator. It doesn't generate standard QR codes, and they expire after a year. Read more...

A better choice is QR Stuff for example. A Google search will turn up lots of options.
- Geoff Coe > Jim Parker January 20, 2012 at 2:05pm
  
  Thanks, Jim!
Jennifer Donald > Geoff Coe January 20, 2012 at 11:59am

Geoff, I tried this out with an online buddy. I emailed him the code, he scanned it w/his phone and sure enough, went right to my website. Very cool.

Jennifer Donald January 20, 2012 at 8:52am

This is awesome. Thank you Larry, for this piece of info and for all you do to help others.

Kathy Oda January 8, 2012 at 3:12am

definitely something to think about. I enjoy using this function on my droid and never thought it was possible to apply to what we do. Thanks for sharing!

Annette Piper January 5, 2012 at 4:07pm

I saw this a few times in Italy but didn't know how they worked. Thanks for the link to your article - very informative!

Steve Cebula January 5, 2012 at 2:59pm

I have added the codes for my website, Facebook art page and twitter to my business card. They are printed on the back of the card along with a logo for each one. The front of my card has a picture of the work, I always mention the "smart phone" info on the back when handing out the card. I also have a larger version that hangs in the booth at the shows. I saw my traffic increase almost immediately when I started using them. Next up, I am thinking of adding the code on my tags next to each piece in the booth so if someone likes a piece it will scan and take them right to it on the website.

Rich Terry January 5, 2012 at 1:41pm

marking for reference

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Using QR Codes to promote your web site

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