What is a QR Code?
QR code is short for “quick response” code. It is a square black and white symbol that is scanned with a smartphone or laser to learn more about a product or service. These encrypted squares can contain content, links, coupons, event details, and other information that users want to see.
How do QR codes work?
Originally designed in Japan for use in the automotive industry, marketers have embraced the QR code because of its large storage capacity and ability to translate additional information to consumers beyond what a product’s packaging or advertising can display.
Let’s say a consumer sees a QR code. They can take their mobile device, download a free app to scan QR codes, or simply use their phone’s camera and scan a QR code to get more information about what they saw. If you wanted to create, say, a bus stop ad promoting your podcast, you could display a QR code on the print ad that would take people directly to your iTunes page when they scan it with their phone. Pretty simple, right?
How to create a QR code with simple steps:
A custom QR code can be your smartest branding effort to create a unique presence among your audience and competitors. With various customization options available such as colors, patterns, backgrounds, logos, and CTA frames, you can easily get a creative QR code design that reflects your brand. Here are some awesome tips on how to create a QR code.
Step 1: Go to qr-code-generator website
Go to qr-code-generator.com using any browser on any operating system. Note that you don’t necessarily need to use this tool; you can choose any online QR code generator. If you need some ideas, check out our list.
Step 2: Don’t forget to use your company name
When planning a custom QR code, always use your brand name at the top of the design. Make sure it is written impressively using professional fonts, text formatting and colors. You can easily increase or decrease the text size of your brand name from the options provided in the QR code generator dashboard.
Step 3: Colors that speak to your brand
Saying goodbye to black and white QR codes and entering the era of color QR codes is a major transformation for modern businesses. In addition, the use of colorful QR codes is the easiest way to attract the user’s attention.
Based on your branding or campaign color theme, you can choose a color scheme or gradient to enhance its look and feel.
Make sure it reflects the color of the brand so that users can immediately connect with it.
Don’t use too many colors with different color schemes. It may reduce the scannability of the QR code.
Step 4: Enter your URL
For most QR codes, you’ll want to redirect the user to a URL. In that case, enter the URL into the tool. You can also choose from other content types, including contact cards, PDFs, and MP3s. At the bottom, you also have the option to create QR codes for Microsoft Word and PowerPoint files. Exact content options will vary by tool. After selecting a content type, a field or form will appear where you can enter information that matches your campaign. For example, if you want your QR code to store contact information, you’ll see a set of fields where you can enter your email address, subject line, and associated message. Once you enter your URL or upload your file, a QR code is instantly generated and loaded for download. However, we recommend customizing it to reinforce your brand identity.
Step 5: Customize the frame, shape, and color of your QR code.
The fun part of creating QR codes is customizing the design of the codes to fit your brand. Want your code to include your logo? Go for it. Want it to reflect your website design? No problem. The front-end generator at qr-code-generator.com offers limited frame, shape, and color options that allow you to customize your QR code. If you want more options, we strongly encourage you to register on the website and edit your QR code through the tool builder portal. Keep in mind that not every QR code creator offers these design options before or after registration. Depending on the QR code you want to generate, some tools may have limited functionality.
Step 6: Click “Download” and save the file to your computer.
If you’re just trying to create a quick QR code, don’t be afraid to register. Click the Download button instead. Your download will start immediately, but the site will try to get you to register. Ignore this message unless you really want to register. A message will appear at the top saying that your QR code is being generated and that you should not refresh the window. The download popup will appear within 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add the QR code to print the collateral.
A QR code will not be able to perform its function until people see it. So, make sure you add the code to all the materials that will help you promote your business. This could include appearing in print ads, on clothing, or in physical locations where people can take their phones and scan them. Scroll down for more tips on how to display a QR code correctly.
As for how you add a JPG or vector file to print collateral, you can do so using a variety of tools, including:
Canva: Canva is an online design tool that allows you to import JPG files and add them to your design. Offers flyer and brochure templates for easy creation.
BeFunky: BeFunky is a similar tool to Canva and also allows you to add JPG files to your design. It also offers templates for you to choose from.
Adobe Illustrator and InDesign: If you are a more advanced user, you can use a special graphic design tool to add your QR code to brochures and booklets. Illustrator is well suited for one-page designs; InDesign is better suited for multi-page brochures.
If you use a mobile device, the good news is: You can easily create a QR code to share with colleagues and potential customers on the go. You will need Google Chrome for this.