Complete QR Code Guide: From Creation to Usage

What Is a QR Code?

QR (Quick Response) codes are 2D barcodes developed by Denso Wave of Japan in 1994. They can store much more information than traditional 1D barcodes and can be scanned quickly from any direction.

QR codes can store up to 7,089 numbers or 4,296 characters. They can encode various types of data including URLs, text, contact information, Wi-Fi settings, and location coordinates.

With smartphone camera advances enabling QR code scanning without separate apps, QR code usage has exploded since COVID-19.

QR Code Structure and Error Correction

QR codes consist of position detection patterns, alignment patterns, timing patterns, and data areas. The large squares in three corners are position detection patterns used by scanners to recognize code orientation and size.

One of QR codes' biggest advantages is error correction. Four levels exist - L(7%), M(15%), Q(25%), H(30%) - allowing data recovery even if the code is partially damaged or obscured.

Selecting a high error correction level allows adding logos in the center while maintaining scannability. However, higher error correction levels also increase QR code size.

Business Applications of QR Codes

Marketing: Add QR codes to print ads, posters, and business cards to link to websites, app download pages, and promotion pages. You can drive offline-to-online conversion.

Payments: Mobile payment services like PayPal and Venmo utilize QR codes. A single QR code at a store can support multiple payment methods.

Inventory Management: Attach QR codes to products for inventory tracking, production history, and authenticity verification. Consumers can also easily check product information.

Tips for Creating Effective QR Codes

Keep URLs short. Long URLs make QR codes complex, lowering scan success rates. Use URL shortening services or short redirect URLs.

For printing, minimum 2cm x 2cm size is recommended. Larger sizes are needed for greater scanning distances. For outdoor ads or posters, at least 10cm is appropriate.

Maintain sufficient contrast with the background. Dark modules on light backgrounds are most reliable. When changing colors, always test scanning.