Quick Response codes are anywhere you look. Over the past few years, there has been an influx of these little squares. But they have been around since 1994 when a Toyota Company subsidiary came up with the idea.
Countless use cases for Quick Response codes exist, from linking to a restaurant menu and making payments to creatively marketing new products and services.
But before you can dive deep into the benefits of these little squares, you need to learn how to use an online QR code maker to generate them.
Luckily, it does not take much effort or a front-end developer’s salary to generate one. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will help you create your first Quick Response code in seconds. Let’s read on to learn more.
QR Code Basics: Static VS. Dynamic
Which Quick Response code do you want to create? Static or dynamic? You need to understand which type you want before picking your QR code maker. These two QR codes can perfectly store data. However, there are some notable differences in their nature, as well as how they work.
Dynamic QR Codes
A dynamic Quick Response code is a more advanced version. It comes with short URLs that help store the real data. This QR code stores the data you have embedded on a server.
That means you can be able to change and update the existing data. This is possible even after creating a Quick Response code and distributing it.
You can smoothly update your data, adapt to the changes, and remain competitive. No more wasting resources and time on re-generations and re-prints.
A dynamic Quick Response code comes with real-time tracking. You can be able to monitor important things like:
- The scanner’s device
- Location and time of the scan
- Total number of scans
Static QR Codes
Free QR code generators create static Quick Response codes. However, a paid version can also allow you to do that. The data stored in these Quick Response codes is fixed.
They have fixed data directly into their patterns. Static QR codes don’t allow you to edit the information stored in them.
Once you create and print your static QR codes, the information inside them becomes permanent. This eliminates the need for any modifications.
That means you must design, generate, print, and distribute a fresh Quick Response codes batch to update or change the embedded information. Static QR codes are perfect for simple purposes such as:
- Embedding short text
- Storing website URLs
- Displaying product or service information like serial numbers
The best practice to keep in mind when creating a static QR code is to keep your information minimal. Huge data results in more congested patterns. This may take a lot of time to scan.
How to Create a QR Code
Anyone can create a Quick Response code. To create one, you only need to use an online QR code maker. Find a reputable QR code maker platform and follow these simple steps to create your first Quick Response code.
Determine the Data to Encode
Decide the type of information that you want your QR code to hold. Is it a website URL? Contact information? WiFi network credentials? A plain text message? You can encode any data you want your target audience to save or access.
Pick the Right Generator
You don’t need to go for any QR code generator you’ll find out there. Make sure that your option or platform of choice is reliable. Consider key things like:
- Customization options
- Usability
- Your service requirements
Pick from reputable and well-known platforms to be sure with amazing results.
Pick the Right Type of Data
Depending on the generator, pick the correct type of data. Different sorts of data are:
- URLs
- Contact details
- SMS
- WiFi network information and more
The data and style you choose will impact how the Quick Response code performs when scanners scan it.
Enter the Content
Input the precise material closely associated with your data type of choice. If you pick a website URL, for example, copy and paste the correct web address. This will ensure you capture the right information that you want your audience to save or access.
Fill in all the blanks with contact information or text. Double-check for accuracy to make sure that any alteration doesn’t interfere with the operation or scannability of your Quick Response code.
Customize and Generate Your QR Code
Entered the right information? It’s the right time to make some adjustments, including:
- Adding logos, colors, and frames
- Changing the QR code’s visual aspect
Generate your code. When you press the “Create QR Code” or “Generate,” your online Quick Response maker should generate an image that encodes your specified information.
Download and Test Your QR Code
Your QR code has been generated? Save the image file on your device. Use the right scanner or application to test the code. Just point the scanner on the QR code and see what it displays.
Is the outcome what you needed? Distribute it online or make more copies and install them where you want.
That is all you need to create your first QR code. Find a reputable online generator to get started.