How Do QR Codes Work?
QR is the abbreviation for “Quick Response”. While they may look quite simple, QR codes are capable of storing loads of data. However no matter how much they contain, when scanned, the QR code should allow the user to access information instantaneously – hence why it’s called a Quick Response code.
QR codes have a very wide range of uses that assists people with avoiding contact with objects and close interactions with other individuals, including for sharing restaurant menus, email list sign-ups, car and home sales information in addition to checking in and out of medical and professional appointments.
QR codes are a close relative of the bar codes on product packaging that cashiers scan with infrared scanners to allow the checkout computer to know what products are being bought.
Bar codes store information along just one axis, horizontally. QR codes store data in both vertical and horizontal axes, which allows them to hold considerably more data. That additional amount of data is what makes QR codes so handy.
Static Vs. Dynamic QR Codes
A static QR code contains information which cannot be modified once it’s live. This means that any typo or misstep will require you to put together a brand new one. The great news is that static codes don’t expire — so when the content is set, your work is complete.
Static QR codes are great for storing fixed or sensitive info — think about Wi-Fi passwords, employee ID numbers, or access codes. However they’re not so useful if you need to update your data regularly.
Dynamic QR codes give you the opportunity to change your information as many times as you want. This is as the information isn’t ingrained into the code itself. Instead, it redirects users to a particular URL that can be changed at any time. For instance, a restaurant can redirect people to a menu on their website.
A significant benefit of dynamic QR codes is the ability to amass scanning metrics. While you aren’t able to access personal information from users, you will be able to see the time, location, and device utilised for each scan. And as marketers, we know these metrics are crucial to gauging campaign effectiveness, whether for claiming a bonus at Black Lotus or a discount on a new pair of shoes.
How Can You Create A QR Code?
You could be sold on the idea of utilising a QR code in your marketing materials however you’re probably thinking to yourself, how on earth am I going to put together one of those? Fortunately, you don’t need to teach yourself the ‘QR code language’ as there are plenty of online QR code generators that are just waiting to be used. These make the whole QR code generation process extremely straightforward.
How Will I Know That My QR Codes Works Properly?
You will know if your QR code works when you scan it utilising various devices such as Android and iOS and it easily shows you to the information which you have embedded in your QR code.
If your mobile device doesn’t have a built-in QR code scanner, you can download a QR code scanner app.
