QR codes seem ever-present nowadays with Covid19 only amplifying its use as businesses move towards digital payments, automation and less human capital.
What is a QR code?
A Quick response (QR) code, like a barcode, is an image which contain data that can be read using your mobile phone or a QR code scanner.
Unlike barcodes, QR codes can contain more data, in the form of a URL, an image, text, unique id, a Google form or pdf.
Why use QR Codes?
QR codes are used for sorting assets, tracking and identifying assets. QR codes are also used for creating brochures, promotions, ads, business cards etc.
Static QR code or Dynamic QR code:
QR codes can be static or dynamics.
Static QR codes are created for the purpose of containing data that need not be changed over time, let’s say a promotion or sale offer valid over a period of time or a URL for a business.
Dynamic QR codes are used when you need better flexibility in terms of use, and editing is needed for the campaign it is used for. You can edit a dynamic QR code even after it is edited.
Dynamics QR codes can also be used to see the QR scan analytics and for targeting the same audience (even online) with modified advertisement or promotion.
Which QR code is best for business?
If you run a restaurant and use QR codes for menus and specials that need to be changed over the week or in a fortnight, dynamic QR codes are the best option.
You can add image of menus and specials or add menus in text form.
You can also see the QR scan analytics to check how many customers know about your business, and the regions they belong to.
You can also use static QR codes that contain a URL for the social media accounts of your business and the customers can visit the specific post you’re targeting.
For short term promotions, static QR codes are best. You can distribute these digitally or print and share in physical form.
Once the promotion runs out, it is not needed and can be removed.
Static QR codes in retail:
In retail, static QR codes can contain item information like pricing and discounts, manufacturing etc. Employee ids and customer memberships can be also created in the form of static QR codes.
Static QR codes in FMCG (fast moving consumer goods)
Like barcodes, QR codes can also be used on items to give information about the products and sort and manage inventory. About to be Expired products can be sorted and put on sale before the expiry date or removed altogether.
Static QR codes in Healthcare:
In healthcare, static QR codes can be used for patient and doctor identification. For patients their health record can be stored in a QR code which the patient and doctors can scan.
Static QR codes can also be used to grant access into various areas and can be used on lab instruments to let users know the application and operation method for the same.
Dynamic QR code for a growing business:
For a new or growing business, a dynamic QR code can be used to reach a wide audience and customize offers can be created for the same. By editing the QR code with new data (offer, promotion, feedback form) and keeping track of such QR codes, businesses can get a clear picture of its impact on customers and can accommodate necessary changes.
Cost of Static and Dynamic QR codes:
Static QR codes can be generated using a QR code generating website or service provider. These are less costly compared to Dynamic QR codes which offer more flexibility in terms of use and application.
- Last updated on Jan 20, 2023