9 tips for using QR Codes
The following tips will help you to use QR Codes safely in your marketing campaigns.
Use dynamic QR Codes
With dynamic QR Codes, you can change the target URL at any time – even if you have already printed the QR Codes. If the website linked behind the QR Code has been unintentionally deleted (e.g. a YouTube video), you can point the QR Code to a different address.
Perform several scan tests
Print out the QR Code and scan it in advance. Check whether the QR Code is readable and really redirects to the desired page. Do not forget to insert the https:// protocol before the URL. Otherwise some QR Code readers might not recognize the link.
Optimize content for smartphones
Make sure that the website behind the QR Code is mobile-friendly. This means that the landing page should be easy to read and navigate on any mobile device. Nothing disturbs the user more than a website on which the font is too small to read. More under:
Please note the minimum size
To be able to scan the code, it must have a certain minimum size (recommended minimum size: 2 x 2 cm). This size is suitable for business cards, flyers or packaging.
Show an alternative URL
Always provide an alternative URL that can be used instead of the QR Code if the interested party does not have a QR Code reader installed on their smartphone.
Place in the right location
Think about where you want to place the QR Code. It should be at a comfortable height. The user will not climb a ladder to scan the QR Code or stop on the highway to scan a QR Code on a billboard.
Arouse curiosity
Offer an incentive to scan your QR Code and announce where the QR Code leads to. If the code is printed on food packaging, for example, write the following:
Provide valuable information
Don’t just link to your homepage, but to a campaign-related page optimized for smartphones.
Give hints
Even if QR Codes are already widespread and well-known, they provide an indication of where the interested party can download reading software for the QR Code.