Want to make QR codes? It’s not a complicated task, especially when you use our step-by-step guide to help you figure it out.
Get creative with your user experience by learning how to make QR codes.
Fast, simple, and direct, QR codes are an excellent way to bridge the physical world and the virtual world.
Think of any flat, smooth surface that someone could aim their phone at. With QR codes, an ordinary spot like this can be a portal to a virtual space.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make QR codes for yourself:
1. Decide on a Method
First, you should decide whether you want to use an online QR code generator or go homemade.
If you already know a programming language like C# or Python, there are QR code tutorials you can use to make a simple one-line generator. And if not, don’t worry.
Just do a quick web search to find an online QR code maker, and you’re good to go.
2. Make QR Codes that Make Sense
Take the time to put yourself in the shoes of whoever’s going to use the QR code. Does the flow make sense? Is the user going to understand the thing they’ll be redirected to?
If your QR code plan is to advertise an online giveaway on a shop window, the code should link directly to a webpage of the giveaway.
If the code is a link to your homepage or another page on your site, you might be leaving the user confused or frustrated.
Even if you think the user can figure out how to navigate to the page advertised with the QR code, you should aim to lower these barriers as much as possible.
The point of a QR code is to rapidly connect users to action or piece of information.
3. Get Crafty
You can add logos and change colours to take your QR code to the next level. There might be an option to do this on your QR code generator if you found it on the internet.
If you’re making the generator yourself, check whether there’s a way to build customizable elements into your code.
You can also make intricate QR artwork if you have some serious art skills or can partner with a QR design team (yes, these exist!).
You’ll just have to be careful that the modifications don’t get out of hand. And that brings us to the final step:
4. Test It
When adding an artistic flair to your QR code, you might be wondering how far you can take it. Some colour changes will make the code unreadable, while others are okay.
Make sure to use some method of verification to know whether the code still works.
If you decided to make your own QR code generator using a tutorial, you’ll most likely be able to scroll down on that same tutorial for a section on verification.
It’ll have some sample code showing you how to plug in your QR image to test whether it works for sure.
Just like in step #1, if this doesn’t make any sense to you, don’t worry. The internet has got you covered.
Search for QR verification or QR tests to find an online scanner that works for you. Another way to check would just be to use your own QR reader, which you probably already have on your phone.
Your Guide to QR Codes
Now you’ve learned all the basic steps you need in order to make QR codes. Whether you’re using an online generator or writing the code yourself, the process is quick and easy.
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Now go forth and QR!
