QR codes are everywhere! They store information and make it accessible with a mouse click. QR stands for “quick response,” which explains how quickly these barcodes can retrieve what you want on your phone or tablet when they are scanned. So to speak, any mobile phone or tablet can scan and activate these codes with the app.
How does a QR code work in practice?
The QR code is a simple way to create digital content with a large amount of information. The square pattern can be read by apps on your phone, laptop, or any other device with an Internet connection! You'll often see these codes in magazines because they're very easy to use. Just scan this code and you'll have all sorts of valuable data at your fingertips.
These codes can contain up to 177 × 177 elements, which is the size of half an A4 page of text, for example! In terms of numbers, they have capacity at the lowest error correction level (or 4296 alphanumeric characters). The higher the error correction level on this scale, the less capacity is available.
The QR code consists of 2 important parts:
● Three squares at the corners of a QR code provide easy orientation for the scanner.
● The pattern in between can be read by devices that incorporate this technology.
Interim conclusion: The square QR code is the perfect way to provide people with great information without having to click through for a long time. This pattern can be easily read by apps on mobile phones or tablets with internet access.
What is a QR code for?
With the advent of automation, data is often read out quickly from QR codes. These codes can be found on tickets, posters, flyers and other marketing elements and take you to information on the landing page or pass on contact information. URLs are often embedded in the code, which interested people can then access via a scanner app. But texts such as voucher codes or information that, for example, speed up ticket verification can also be saved by an organization and sent via these types of messages if necessary!
Some of the most important features include:
● Display location on Google Maps
● Create a new contact using the vCard
● Opens a website in the browser
● Display a static text
● Predefined text for an SMS or email
● Wi-Fi connection
● Linked to social media profiles
● Download PDF file
How to use a QR code
You can use a QR code to connect your phone to an app or open a website directly. The process is simple and you only need 4 steps:
1) Point the camera at one of these codes
2) Scan the QR code
3) The app reads and processes the code
4) The code is executed and asks for their permission to jump to the URL that is entered.
How can I generate my own QR code myself?
The creation of QR codes is a simple and straightforward process that can be done via apps or websites. You choose a specific function such as URL linking, wifi or text. Once you've entered the information and the code is created, the image can be saved as a.JPEG file. Then you can print it on t-shirts, share it via messaging apps, or it can be saved on the company's website.
When you create your QR code, make sure that there are two types of these codes that you should know about: static and dynamic. If you change the destination URL for a static code, the code no longer works. This is not the case with the second variant at all, as it can be easily adapted without affecting its functionality or properties. You often have to pay something for the dynamic codes.
What are the most important advantages and disadvantages of QR codes?
QR codes are an interesting technology that has some advantages and disadvantages. It depends on how you use it, whether your application needs it and what benefits this feature offers users.
Benefits: Quick and easy
QR codes are a great way to make processes more convenient. For example, you can enter a product website into a manual using a QR code, or to make it easier for guests in a café to access Wi-Fi, then using this technology saves them time and alleviates frustration. It should already include added value for the user.
With the right strategy, this technology can be used to quickly make engaging marketing materials and digital content accessible. It is important that users see advantages in their everyday lives, which often means exclusive offers or faster access to get what they need.
Disadvantages: Security risks and unclear sense
People are often tempted to use QR codes, even if they make little sense. In these cases, it is not taken seriously and users do not respond to it.
When designing the QR code, it is important that it is visible in a static and stationary location. When placed on moving objects such as vehicles or walls in stores, scanning becomes impossible.
The potential for security risks is high with QR codes. Anyone who scans these codes runs the risk of being redirected to a problematic URL. It is possible that someone may paste them over or otherwise manipulate them.
Users are increasingly concerned if they don't know where the code will lead them and whether the provider can be trusted. Providers should provide the destination URL with the full address early on to dispel any mistrust while explaining what QR codes are specifically used for.
Conclusion: added value for the user!
QR codes are a useful tool when used strategically. More and more pre-installed camera apps can be read, which increases their popularity in today's mobile world! If this technology has added value to users, it is worth considering it. There will always be new opportunities to use these codes in the future.
