Creating the perfect QR code is a fun and easy process and after you test your code it is time to print it out. This isn't a complicated process and depending on your need and place, either public printers can help, or you can download them and do it yourself. We'll go over what you need to know here.
When deciding how you will be using your QR codes consider how many you will need. Is there one code users will scan many times like a social media code linking to your branded accounts, or will you create codes in bulk that scanners can use many times or one-off codes for coupons and discounts?
And for what purpose are you using QR codes? Is it for traceability, registration, ticket entry to events, or scans to landing pages with need-to-know information? There are many ways to use QR codes to get your company name out there and incorporate them into fantastic digital marketing campaigns.
There is also a code for any use, so choose the type that suits your purpose the most:
Static codes cannot be modified in the long run vs. dynamic codes which can be continuously updated for agile marketing campaigns. If you would like to edit later, please choose a dynamic code such as URL, feedback, or social media codes. They don't need to be reprinted when they are modified on the back end. For tips, please check out our guide about static vs. dynamic QR codes.
Make your code eye-catching to the user and always use branded colors in your codes so they give your company brand recognition and stand out from the rest. Contrast is important because if you print a QR code on a surface such as a window with moving images in the background, the code is difficult to scan. While QRs give great exposure to shop windows, always make the code itself with contrasting colors so it is easy to scan or have white space around it to capture the code in the scanner. It is still possible to have a beautiful contrast and incorporate branded colors.
Make a frame with beautiful colors and a message to place around your code. Choose from different frames and customize your colors and messages. Have a clear CTA on every code. People are more inclined to utilize the QR code when they have a clear reason. If it is a promotion, a social media account link, e-store, or just more information about the company, do leave a clear message to inspire people to scan. Customers need to know why they are scanning such as: "Scan to follow us on Instagram" or "Scan here for menu" depending on the need.
Logos are important for branding because it is the visual symbol consumers use to associate your company with the campaign. When your identity is memorable it separates you from the competition and captures consumer attention. It also makes a lasting impression on people who are new to using your brand. Additionally, logos should be small enough to be able to scan the code successfully but big enough to recognize your brand. Don't put the logo over the three squares on the corners or it will not scan.
The Hyatt frequently places their logo in the center of their QR codes and has differently designed codes for various locations, restaurants, spa services, and buffet menus.
At this point you will create a folder or add your code to an existing folder and you are done. Download in JPG, JPEG, or SVG format during this stage.
It is most beneficial to print QR codes on flat, visible surfaces where they are easily accessible to scanners. Printing on shiny, glossy materials and surfaces will reflect too much light and make it difficult for cameras and QR code scanning apps to read the code. Either print on banners at trade shows, posters in lobbies, or printed materials like brochures that are easily scannable. If you're going to print on thousands of materials, please print on one to test scanning before printing the rest.
For smaller codes and shorter ranges: The best minimum size for the QR code is at least 1"x1", 2.5cm x 2.5cm, or 115 x 115 pixels. Older mobile phones may have difficulties scanning anything smaller. This size should be the minimum for short distance scanning such as for contactless payment, product packaging, or clothing tags, just to name a few.
For larger codes being scanned from far away: Sizes should be proportionate to distance. If a code is farther away, making it larger is necessary to pick up the scan. Larger codes are great for buildings, billboards, and displays. The scanning size to distance should be approximately 10:1. So if the code is 10m (32 feet) away from the scanner it should be about 1m (3.2 feet) wide and tall.
Please always test codes at different ranges before finalizing your campaign to see what is the perfect size for you.
The more codes you print, the higher the cost. There are small sticker printers that are available but this can be hard to scale. Getting a printer depends on whether businesses regularly generate a high number of QRs or only need a few. VIP Color suggests certain printers depending on how many codes you need and how quickly you need them printed.
Choose a professional printing shop for short-term needs and always print a sample first to test the code. Make sure the size is appropriate for the distance before posting at the final location.
When committing to long-term codes that will be on your clothing tags, bags, receipts, and any other product information labelled on materials repeatedly, incorporate the codes into the design of your labels and packaging and do a test on a sample before printing it on all of your products to find disappointment later on if it doesn't scan to the correct information or is blocked by other designs on labels. Dynamic QR codes can be changed on the back end at any time for updated information but static QR codes cannot be edited so this is something to take into consideration when producing long-term codes and incorporating them into permanent packaging on your company's products.
When considering which materials that you will print codes on, think about the need of your customer and what is the best way to convey your message. Check out Supercode's solutions to find out more about ideas and examples of some of the best campaigns below:
QR codes can benefit any industry and any need. They have continuously been incorporated into a diverse number of companies with a lot of success for customer retention, brand recognition, e-commerce, and contactless services. We've compiled some of the best use cases for each industry to implement QR codes into your digital campaigns:
QR codes shouldn't be put in places where the colors can fade in direct UV sunlight making the contrast off and hard to scan. Neither should they be in dark places where the scanner won't pick up the colors. It's also beneficial to post QR codes in places where they are easily accessible i.e., not too low or high and where there is enough foot traffic but it isn't blocked by crowds.
There are many easy tips and tricks to creating the perfect QR code in just minutes. Knowing what works and what doesn't will work magic for your campaigns and really make the QR codes work for you and your customers. For a free downloadable guide of our detailed suggestions, check out our 50 Dos and Don'ts of Using QR Codes. For some common printing suggestions, we have shared a short list below:
Signup for Supercode's QR code generator software and print eye-catching and inspiring QR codes that are value-added to your services, products, marketing strategy, and customers.
