What's the deal with those QR codes?
I'm guessing by now you have seen a QR Code at least a few times. In case you don't know what I'm talking about, take a look at the picture to the left. It is the blue checkered design thingy. QR codes have been around for awhile now. They got their start in the auto industry in Japan around 1994. Since then, the QR code has shown up in lots of places from postcards, restaurants menus, on the back of semi-trucks and even in church pews! Last Christmas, you may have gotten some QR code stickers from your Regional Director to use throughout your parish.
So what are we using QR codes for?
QR code stickers can actually be used for more then just a weblink. They can be used to autogenerate a text, start an email, share a phone number or even select a location on google maps. I recently saw a QR code being used in a Bitcoin transaction! The world of QR codes can be a bit crazy, but simple here in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. We can use a QR code as a quick and simple way to share a web link to your parish giving page.
Once a QR code is created, you can place the QR code graphic where ever you would like. Many parishes are printing them in the bulletin or use them on an in-pew card that parishioners can take with them on the way out of Mass.
After the QR code is created they are really simple to use! If you have an iPhone, open the camera app and point the camera at the QR code. The camera will read the code and ask if you would like to go to the website it links too. It is as simple as that. The QR code is a quick way to be directed to a website. If you have a android phone, you might need a app if the camera option above does not work.
How do I make a QR code?
There are a lot of services that will make QR codes for you. I personally use QR Code Monkey, mainly because I like the name, and it's really easy to use.
Copy that web address you want to link to example: https://membership.faithdirect.net/MD993
Enter the weblink you want the QR code to link to
Click, "Create QR code" then download the graphic.
There you have it! If you need any help at all, please contact your Regional Director. We are happy to help!
One last thing, you can try reading the QR Code at the left of this paragraph. Just pull out your phone, open the camera app and point it at the computer screen. If it all works correctly, you should be directed to the AOB webpage.
