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We talk a lot here about how versatile QR codes are and all the different ways you can use them. It feels like you can put a QR code just about anywhere!
However, there are plenty of limitations you should keep in mind when finding a place to stick your code. You wouldn’t want to place your code somewhere that no one will see, or worse, cause bodily harm.
In this piece I will go over the places where you both should and should NOT place a QR code. I hope you’re taking notes, because we are starting right now!
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a type of encoded image that can be scanned in order to access information and data. While originally used for inventory management, they can be used to share text documents, images, contact information, wifi sign in, and even web based content like URL addresses, social media links, group chats, and video content.
Where should a QR code be placed?
In the real world, QR codes exist as flat 2D images, and therefore can be placed anywhere you could a flat 2D image. This could include stickers, fliers, signs, placards, cards, and even on digital screens like in movies, TV shows, and video games.
With this in mind, it makes the most sense for QR codes to be placed on a clean, flat surface where your target audience is likely to see it and still be able to scan it. Some examples include:
- On walls
- On tables
- On signs
- In the window of a storefront
- On a website
- On a badge or pin
Where shouldn’t you put a QR code?
While QR codes can still be scannable under a variety of circumstances, there are a number of locations where it would be unwise to stick a QR code. Namely, anywhere your target audience is unlikely to see the code, somewhere they are not expected to have their phones out, or on non-flat surfaces.
Some of the WORST places you can put a QR code include:
- On a billboard (drivers should not have their phones out on the road)
- On a bumper sticker (same reason as above)
- On a ceiling (will be difficult to notice and scan)
- Any sort of moving vehicle (will be difficult to scan)
- As a tattoo (the body is not entirely flat and skin can warp over time)
- On a rock (surface is not smooth and can become eroded)
- As graffiti (is illegal and will likely be taken down)
- A tree or any other plant life (disturbs nature and will grow and change over time)
- On a pet (self explanatory)
The only case where you would really want to have your code be more hidden would be in a puzzle solving context, like for an escape room or an ARG. Other than that, you want to keep your codes open and obvious.
FAQ
Q: How can I make my own QR code?
A: You can make your own QR code for free through a service like QR code developer.
Q: What devices can scan QR codes?
A: Most modern smart devices, including mobile phones and tablets, are capable of scanning and accessing the content within QR codes.
Q: How do I scan a QR code?
A: You can scan a QR code by opening up the camera application on your smart device, pointing it at the code, and then tapping the link when it pops up.
Q: Do I need to download an app to scan QR codes?
A: No. Most modern smart devices are capable of scanning QR codes right from the built in camera app.
General tips
- Know your audience: If you’re certain that most of your intended audience doesn’t know how to use QR codes or just don’t like them, then don’t use them.
- Keep instructions clear: Provide clear instructions on how to use and scan QR codes as well as where the codes will redirect to.
- Place codes on a flat surface: To make sure that codes are still scannable, only put them on flat surfaces, like walls, tables, posters, or fliers.
- Use high contrast: If using custom colors on a code, make sure that the colors are distinct enough from each other to be read as a QR code.
- Make sure codes are visible: Don’t place codes where patrons are unlikely to see them.
- Only use codes when necessary: If an alternative exists that’s easier for all parties involved, use that.
- Test on multiple devices: Make sure your codes work whether scanned on an Android device, iPhone, tablet, or other device.
Monitoring code usage
With the tools available on QR Code Developer, as well as other code generators, you can monitor the usage of any code you create. This can include how many times a code has been scanned, where it has been scanned, on what device, using what browser, and more. With these tools, you can figure out which codes are reaching the most people and where to focus any advertising efforts.
With QRCodeveloper you can monitor:
- Number of scans
- Number of scans by operating system
- Scans by browser
- Scans by country
- Scans by city
- Scans by language
- Unique scans
Conclusion
While QR codes are an amazing technology with lots of versatility in what you can do with them, that can only go so far. You should always keep in mind the human experience when deciding where to put your QR codes and not place them somewhere that would be difficult to get to or cause injury.
If you want to create your own QR codes, then you can do so right now with the free tools available with QR Code Developer. Get started today and see just how easy it is!