QR codes have come a long way since their invention in 1994 and have become an essential tool in today’s digital world.
They offer an efficient and convenient way for consumers to access information, purchase products, and avail services with one scan. They’re everywhere, from billboards and brochures to business cards and packaging.
As a marketer, you may have already realized the potential of QR codes to drive engagement and conversion for your business.
But for your QR code to be successful, it needs to be designed with the user in mind. A well-designed QR code users can quickly scan and is scannable.
Take a look at key elements that can make or break your QR code, including color schemes, logos, and call-to-actions.
This post will cover the dos and don’ts of QR code design using the free QR code generator software and everything you should know about QR code customization.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your QR code is visually appealing and functional, increasing the chances of your QR code campaign’s success.
Whether you’re new to QR codes or an experienced marketer, this post will give you the information you need to create effective and engaging QR codes.
The Do’s of QR Code Design
Following these guidelines guarantees that your QR code will be more attractive and easy to scan. It also increases the chances of user engagement and conversions.
Use a high-contrast color scheme
One of the essential elements of QR code design is ensuring that the code is easily scannable.
Use a high-contrast color scheme, with a dark color for the code and a light color for the background. It can help make the code stand out and make it easy for users to scan the QR code.
Use a simple logo
Including a logo or icon in your QR code can make it more recognizable and memorable to users. It also builds confidence in scanning your QR code since your logo will suggest that the QR code is legit.
However, make sure that your logo is high-definition. A blurry or low-quality logo can affect your QR code’s readability.
Include a call-to-action
A QR code is most effective when it has a clear purpose. Including a call-to-action, such as “Scan to learn more” or “Scan to enter our contest,” can increase engagement and make it clear to users what they can expect when they scan the code.
Use QR code tracking
You can see how many people are scanning your code and where they’re coming from when you track your QR code. You can use this data to improve your QR code’s design and targeting in the future.
The Don’ts of QR Code Design
Avoid using too many colors or patterns
Adding color or patterns to your QR code can make it more visually appealing, but these elements can make the code harder to scan.
Stick with a simple and high-contrast color scheme to ensure that the code is easily scannable.
Don’t make the QR code too small
A common mistake is to make the QR code too small, which makes it difficult to scan, especially for users with smaller screens or older smartphones.
The QR code must be at least 1 inch x 1 inch to ensure users can quickly scan it.
Don’t use non-standard QR code shapes
Standard QR codes are square, but some designers may use non-standard shapes to make the code more interesting.
However, non-standard shapes can cause compatibility issues with scanning devices and make it harder for users to scan them.
Stick with the standard square shape to ensure the code is easily scannable.
Don’t forget to test the QR code
Before using a QR code in a campaign, it’s essential to test it to ensure it’s scannable and links to the correct information.
Test the code on multiple devices and in different lighting conditions to ensure it works correctly.
By avoiding these common mistakes in QR code design, you can ensure that your code is easy to scan and links to the correct information.
This strategy will increase the chances of success with your QR code campaign.
Benefits of following the do’s and don’ts of QR code design
The guidelines are there for a reason. Check out the advantages you’ll enjoy when you play by the rules of QR code design:
Increased usability
A high-contrast color scheme and a simple logo or icon for your QR code will be more easily scannable and recognizable to users.
It can increase the chances of users scanning and interacting with the code.
Greater engagement
Including a clear call to action provides a better understanding of what to expect when customers scan the code, increasing engagement.
Better tracking
QR code tracking offers valuable insights into the number of QR code scans and the device and location of the users.
You can use this data to improve your QR code’s design and targeting in the future.
Higher conversions
A well-designed QR code can drive more engagement and user interactions leading to higher conversion rates.
Create visually appealing and functional QR codes today
QR codes are an essential part of today’s digital marketing. By following the guidelines above, you can create QR codes that are effective, easy to use, and drive engagement and conversions for your business.
The dos of QR code design, such as using a high-contrast color scheme, a simple logo or icon, and a call-to-action, can help make your QR code more easily scannable and failproof.
Using QR code tracking can also provide valuable insights into how your users interact with your QR code and where you can improve.
On the other hand, avoiding the don’ts of QR code design, such as using too many colors or patterns, making the QR code too small, using non-standard shapes, and not testing the code before using it, can ensure that your code is easily scannable, links to the correct information and compatible with all scanning devices.
So, whether you’re new to QR codes or an experienced marketer, take the time to create QR codes that will stand out and drive results for your business.