What Is A QR Code: Complete Guide, Benefits & Uses

QR codes have become a common sight in our daily lives, appearing on product packaging, advertising posters, and business cards. According to QR TIGER, there’s 41.77 million QR scans already performed worldwide.

This proves the depth of influence QR codes have—they have become a valuable tool for businesses and consumers.

But what are QR codes and what makes them significant? In this article, we’ll explore the basics of QR codes and dive into how they work and their numerous uses, plus how to create one using a free QR code generator software.

What is a QR code?

A QR code is a 2-dimensional barcode. There’s two types of it: static and dynamic QR code. It stores a lot of information which can be seen when scanned. The scanning is possible because of its three parts: the quiet zone, the finder pattern, and the data region. 

The quiet zone is a clear margin around the code that allows QR code readers to distinguish it from its surroundings.

On the other hand, the finder pattern located in the corners of the code, helps the reader determine the orientation and size of the code. While the data region contains the actual information encoded in the code.

💡Did you know? You can clearly visualize this if you try generating one at Free QR Code Generator website, it’s free and easy to use!

How QR codes work?

The real magic of QR codes happens after scanning. When scanned, it decodes the embedded data—and this data could be a variety of information, like files, links, social media pages, or even business cards.

All you have to do is get a QR code scanner. You can get a third party scanner via the app store or you might want to check your phone’s camera for a possible built-in QR code scanner in it. Sometimes, you’ll have to turn on the feature in your device settings.

To scan: Open your camera or launch the scanning app, position over the QR code, and click on the link in the prompt. And there you go! You now get to enjoy the data.

Best QR code uses to try (Industry-based)

QR codes have many uses, making them versatile and convenient tools for businesses, organizations, and individuals. Some of the most common uses of QR codes include:

Marketing and advertising

Have you tried producing posters or flyers to advertise your business? Just imagine the hassle of designing a layout that would fit all details on one piece of paper. Why go through so much hassle when you can just add QR codes in marketing materials?

A design that screams tech—clutter-free yet allows you to store any information; you can direct customers to a specific landing page, product page, or video.

Event and ticketing

Event ticketing has never been cheap with all the printing, plus the effort to manually check in these ticket holders on the event day.

So if you’re an event organizer, adding an event QR code on tickets can streamline check-in processes on the day of the event and even provide other information like seat number or emergency exits and comfort room directions.

Transportation

It’s not a new idea to have QR codes on transportation stations or public vehicles. You probably have seen QR codes in one of the many train stations for the travel schedule. They could also be in taxi cabs for easier payment transactions. 

QR codes may be small but they really have gigantic impacts. And with its participation in the transportation industry, it only strengthens tourism and provides convenience.

Payment

Paying in paper bills or coins is no longer the only way to make payments for all your purchases. You would see QR codes plaster in most counters so customers can have the option to pay via e-money.

Customers can just scan the QR code, input the payment due (but most of the time, the amount automatically pops in), then authorize the transaction.

Consider this as one of the QR code ideas for businesses that you can use. Now, you don’t have to worry about bulky wallets or piles of cards. 

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities could greatly benefit from the use of QR codes. Doctors can share their business cards via QR codes for instant contact-saving. Or hospitals may place QR codes in their social media pages to inform clients of clinic schedules.

Doctors can monitor patient histories and progress just by scanning a QR code per patient. Making the usual work a lot lighter for everyone.

Education

It’s no lie how the advancement in technology is also becoming evident even in education. Students nowadays no longer rely on notebooks or books, they come to school bringing iPads, laptops, or phones.

Hence, learning institutions can use QR codes to provide students with access to course materials, track attendance, and provide information on assignments and exams.

Product information

Businesses can place QR codes on products to provide customers with additional information, such as ingredients, usage instructions, and product reviews.

Admit it, these are crucial information that most consumers look for in a product and most of the time, they don’t fit into the product packaging which could impact buying behaviors.

But with a printed QR code in your packaging, the amount of data you can provide is massive.

Benefits of using QR codes

And if it doesn’t convince you yet, here are far more better reasons to try QR codes:

• Ease of use: QR codes are quick and easy to use, requiring only a smartphone and a QR code reader app. They eliminate the need for manual data entry and provide instant access to information.
• Increased efficiency: QR codes can automate processes, reducing the time and effort required to access information or complete transactions.
• Improved tracking: The QR code tracking features  allow businesses to monitor customer behavior and gather data, which can improve marketing strategies and customer experiences.
• Accessibility: Provide a convenient and accessible way to access information with just one QR code scan, making them ideal for use in public spaces, on products, and on advertising campaigns.
• Increased security: Secure access to sensitive information using QR codes, such as medical records, financial information, and event tickets.
• Customization: Marketers can customize QR code with colors, logos, and designs, making them a versatile and effective marketing tool.

A guide to best practices when using QR codes

By following these best practices when using a QR code maker or software, businesses and organizations can effectively use QR codes:

1. Ensure the QR code is easily scannable: The QR code should be large enough to be easily scanned and in a location where it is visible.

2. Provide a clear call to action: Make sure that users know what to expect when they scan the QR code. Provide a clear call to action, such as “Scan for more information” or “Scan to access the event.”

3. Test the QR code: Run a test scan on the QR code to ensure it directs users to the correct information or landing page.

4. Make sure the landing page is mobile-friendly: The landing page that the QR code directs users to should be optimized for mobile devices, providing a positive user experience.

5. Use unique QR codes for each campaign or event: Create unique QR codes for each campaign or event to track the success of each and gather data.

6. Track and analyze QR code usage: Use tools to track and analyze QR code usage, such as Google Analytics, to gather data and improve future campaigns.

7. Keep the QR code design simple: Maintain the QR code design simple to avoid confusion and improve scan rates.

Create a QR code using the free QR code generator today

QR codes have become an essential tool for businesses, organizations, and individuals in the digital age. 

With their versatility, ease of use, and ability to automate processes and track customer behavior, QR codes offer numerous benefits that make them a valuable tool for improving efficiency and engagement. 

Whether used for marketing and advertising, event and ticketing, transportation, payment, healthcare, education, or product information, QR codes offer a convenient and accessible way to access information and connect with customers.

Stay ahead of the curve and leverage the latest technology to improve your business or organization. Consider incorporating QR codes into your strategy today!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What do the letters QR stand for?

The QR in QR code means “Quick Response”

What happens when I scan a QR code?

Upon scanning a QR code, you will see the embedded data. For files, like images or PDFs, you will immediately see the file. But for links, there would be previews, you will see the link first and up to you to proceed.