Delivering HIV information to people through the tools they use.


QR Codes

What are QR Codes?

"QR" (or "quick response") codes store information in the form of a two-dimensional square barcode. QR codes direct users to mobile websites or videos, store text or contact information, call a phone number, and/or send text messages and emails.

People interact with QR codes by scanning the barcode with their mobile phone camera. A QR reader application is needed to detect the QR code. You can download a QR reader application to your smartphone through a mobile application store. It is possible to track when, where, and how many people are scanning QR codes with Google Analytics, Bit.ly, and other services.

QR codes in response to HIV

Many commercial companies use QR codes as part of their marketing campaigns. At AIDS.gov, we are exploring the use of QR codes on brochures, posters, postcards, or business cards to:

  • Link users to more detailed information about HIV-related topics.
  • Provide contact information about HIV services for people to quickly download.
  • Promote specific HIV events (e.g., National HIV Testing Day).

Examples from the field

AIDS.gov Mobile Site

http://m.aids.gov/

AIDS.gov mobile site features HIV/AIDS basic information and in a mobile friendly format.

AIDS.gov mobile site

AIDS.gov Locator

http://locator.aids.gov/

The AIDS.gov HIV/AIDS Prevention & Services Provider Locator helps users locate HIV/AIDS related clinics in their area.

AIDS.gov Locator

AIDS.gov Branded QR Code

http://locator.aids.gov/

QR codes allow some flexibility for branding.

AIDS.gov Mobile Awareness Day Page

Multimedia

What’s a QR code?

QR Code May 17, 2011

One Pagers

QR Codes (PDF - 508 KB)

QR Codes - One Page PDF

A one page reference regarding QR codes, what they are, and how they are being used in the fight against HIV/AIDS.