Creating a QR code in 3 easy steps!

Since nearly everyone under the age of 50 has a smartphone, as a pastor or someone who works in the church, you might want to utilize a QR code to promote an event or to direct people to a specific website. That might sound rather daunting, but even if you only have basic computer skills, you can create a QR code in just 3 easy steps.

What is a QR code?

A QR code is a a square barcode on a white background that looks like a rorschach test or some kind of crudely drawn maze, but contains information.

How does it work?

If your phone doesn't have a QR code reader, you can download plenty of free apps that will do the job. When you come across a QR code on a poster, flyer or product package, simply start the code reader app (which works a lot like your phone's camera), make sure the code is in frame, and if it doesn't auto-direct you to a website, click the 'capture' button and in a second your phone will read the code and direct you to a website for event or product information.

Why would I want to make one?

It saves space! Instead of cluttering your print bulletin or flyer with information, a QR code can direct people who are interested to a page on your website to get that information. It's also interactive! Imagine projecting a QR code on the screen at church to direct people to a survey page, to sign up for a small group, or to send people to your social media account to 'like' or 'follow' you. Use the QR code to the right to come follow me on Twitter!

How to make a QR code in 3 EASY steps:

1. Start with the content! Before you create your QR code, make sure that the page you want to direct people to is completed. That sounds obvious, but sending someone to a half-finished/broken webpage is rather unprofessional.

2. Use a FREE QR code generator. There are plenty of websites that will create a FREE QR code for you. Some have fancy options for customizing the look of the code, but it's rather unnecessary. I like http://qrcode.kaywa.com. There are two options, static or dynamic. Since this post is about simplicity, choose the static option (it just means the code won't be stored or changeable), generate your QR code and then right click and 'save as' to your computer.

3. Insert your saved image. When creating your flyer, bulletin or powerpoint presentation, just insert your saved QR code image, adjust the size to your heart's content, and that's it! It couldn't be easier.

An Introduction

With almost 20 years of experience working with teenagers (10 of those as a student pastor), I have a lot of material to share. While I'm a guy who prepares and plans my talks well in advance, there have been days where I've needed ideas and inspiration. If you're looking for a talk or outline to build off of or just need a little something to spark your own creativity, help yourself! Tweet me if I've managed to help you out! @SpearsBenjamin