QR codes are everywhere these days! From restaurant menus to event tickets, these little squares are a quick and easy way to connect people to digital content. But just slapping a QR code onto something isn’t enough—you’ll want to make sure it’s useful, engaging, and easy to use. Here’s a simpler guide to help make your QR codes work better.
What Are QR Codes, and Why Are They Useful?
QR codes, short for “Quick Response” codes, are scannable barcodes that can instantly take people to websites, videos, PDFs, or even payment pages. They became especially popular during the pandemic as a no-contact way to access information (like digital menus). They’re still a powerful tool today—if you use them the right way.
QR codes can do more than open a website. You can encode contact cards, calendar events, Wi-Fi credentials, email, SMS, and plain text, not just URLs. Pick the format that matches the action you want, and the scan feels natural.
The Do’s of QR Codes
1. Include a Clear Call-to-Action
When someone scans your QR code, they should know exactly what to expect. Whether it’s “Scan to see our menu,” “Scan to shop new arrivals,” or “Scan to sign up for our event,” make it super clear why they should scan. No one likes surprises that waste time—or worse, feel suspicious.
2. Keep It Simple
Your QR code should have one clear purpose. For example, if the code says “Download our guide,” don’t send users to a cluttered landing page or a generic website. Instead, go straight to the guide download.
Simple = better. A focused QR code keeps things easy for your audience and ensures their experience is quick and seamless.
3. Ensure Your Landing Page is Mobile-Friendly
Most people scan QR codes using their phones. No one wants to load a website that’s hard to read or takes forever to load. Make sure your landing page is optimized for mobile devices—fast, clear, and easy to scroll.
4. Measure Your Results
Want to know if your QR code is working? Track it! Many QR code generators allow you to see stats like how many people scanned it and when. This helps you tweak things to get better results—for example, moving your QR code to a different location or changing the call-to-action.
5. Use High-Quality Images
Blurry or pixelated QR codes don’t scan well (or at all). Make sure your QR code image is sharp and big enough to scan easily, whether it’s on a flyer, menu, or poster.
Leave a clear quiet zone around the code, at least four modules on every side, so scanners lock on fast. Use high contrast, dark modules on a light background, and avoid color reversals. Print large enough for the real scan distance, then test at that spot.
6. Test, Test, Test
Always scan-test your QR code before printing or sharing it to make sure it works perfectly. And test it from different angles or distances depending on where people will scan it (e.g., a wall poster vs. a small business card).
7. Static vs. Redirectable QR Codes
Static codes store the destination inside the symbol, so you can’t change it after printing. Redirectable codes point to a short link, which lets you update targets and collect scan analytics. For campaigns on packaging, displays, or jobsite signage, this protects your budget and data.
8. Error Correction Levels and When to Use Them
QR codes offer four error correction levels, L, M, Q, and H. Higher levels recover more damaged data, about 7, 15, 25, or 30 percent, but they increase density. If you add a small logo or expect wear, choose Q or H, and increase printed size.
The Don’ts of QR Codes
1. Don’t Leave People Guessing
Never make people wonder what your QR code does. Tell them! A mysterious QR code, with no context, gets ignored or feels untrustworthy.
2. Don’t Overcomplicate Things
If someone scans a QR code for a specific reason (like downloading a file), they shouldn’t have to deal with extra steps. Skip the distractions—no one wants to fill out a survey or see unrelated ads first.
3. Don’t Skip Mobile Optimization
If your QR code leads to a website that’s hard to use on a phone, people will bounce off faster than you can say, “Oops.” Test everything on your smartphone before launching.
4. Don’t Hide It
If no one sees your QR code, no one will scan it. Place it somewhere visible and easy to scan from different angles. Think about the location—will people be standing close? Sitting far away? Adjust the size accordingly.
5. Don’t Skimp on User Experience
If the content your QR code links to isn’t helpful, engaging, or worth their time, people won’t bother coming back. Offer something valuable—like a discount, exclusive content, or useful info.
6. Use HTTPS and Clear Links
Link to HTTPS pages, and use a recognizable domain, ideally your brand. Place a short, human readable URL near the code, so people have another path if scanning fails. Avoid links that trigger downloads or permission prompts, which reduce trust and scan rates.
Real-Life Ways to Use QR Codes
Here are some simple, everyday ways to use QR codes effectively:
- Restaurants: Direct customers to online menus, payment options, or special deals.
- Retail stores: Share product details, reviews, or limited-time discounts.
- Events: Make it easy for attendees to RSVP or pull up event details.
- Business cards: Use QR codes to share your contact info or link to your portfolio.
- Promotions: Offer exclusive deals or access to interactive content to engage customers.
Wrap-Up
Done right, QR codes are simple, powerful tools to connect and engage with your audience. Keep them clear, focused, and easy to scan, and they’ll work wonders for your business. Want to make sure your QR codes stand out? Stick to these best practices, and you’re already a step ahead!
Happy scanning! Contact me if you’d like some help with utilizing QR codes!
FAQs
QR codes store more data in a smaller space than barcodes and became invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic for contactless transactions.
Despite the QR code’s revival, many B2B companies find it challenging to use them effectively, often due to a lack of strategy on how and when to deploy them.
Originally designed in 1994 to track vehicles during manufacturing, QR codes now enhance user experience by providing quick access to information or services.
A clear call-to-action (CTA) is crucial, telling users where the QR code will take them and what to expect, thereby improving user experience and engagement.
QR codes should serve one clear purpose, lead to mobile-optimized landing pages, and be well-designed for easy scanning and accessibility.
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BuiltSpace.com takes QR Codes for building products to the next level. We put them on assets in buildings allowing you to connect with owners of installed product.