How to Create and Use a QR Code

1. How to Create and Use a QR Code

QR (Quick Response) codes are a simple and effective way to direct users to your website, online forms, digital brochures, event registration pages, or payment systems. This guide explains how to create and use QR codes correctly.

1.1 What Is a QR Code?

A QR code is a type of barcode that, when scanned using a smartphone camera, instantly directs users to a specific URL or piece of content.

1.2 How to Create a QR Code

Follow these steps to create a QR code:

Step 1: Choose a QR Code Generator

Use a reliable free tool such as:

• www.qr-code-generator.com
• www.qrstuff.com
• www.goqr.me

Step 2: Enter Your URL or Content

Paste the full website link, form URL, or any destination you want people to access.

Step 3: Customise (Optional)

Some tools allow you to customise the colour, add a logo, or adjust the design. Keep the QR code clear and high contrast for better scanability.

Step 4: Download the QR Code

Download your QR code in a high resolution format such as:

• PNG
• SVG
• PDF

These formats are suitable for both print and digital use.

1.3 Best Practices for Using QR Codes

• Test before use
  Scan your code with multiple devices to confirm it works correctly.
• Print clearly
  Ensure the code is large enough and not distorted when printed.
• Use in strategic locations
  Flyers, posters, menus, signage, receipts, newsletters, and similar materials are ideal placements.
• Explain the action
  Add a short call to action near the code, such as:
  • Scan to donate
  • Scan to view our menu
  • Scan to register
• Track engagement (optional)
  Use a shortened URL or tracked link to measure QR code usage.

1.4 Where You Can Use QR Codes

• Church bulletins and noticeboards
• School newsletters and enrolment materials
• Tourism brochures or signage
• Shop counters and packaging
• Business cards
• Email signatures

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2. How to Track the Usage of QR Codes

2.1 Purpose

Tracking QR code usage helps you understand how effective your campaigns are, where traffic is coming from, and what users do after scanning.

2.2 Use a Trackable URL

To track QR code usage, the URL embedded within the QR code should be trackable.

There are two common approaches:

2.3 Option A: UTM Parameters (Google Analytics)

Add UTM tags to the URL so platforms such as Google Analytics can track traffic sources.

Example

https://yourwebsite.com/landing-page?utm_source=qr&utm_medium=print&utm_campaign=promo2025

Parameters

• utm_source=qr – Identifies the traffic source as a QR code
• utm_medium=print – Identifies the type of material, such as a brochure or poster
• utm_campaign=promo2025 – Identifies the specific campaign or promotion

2.4 Option B: URL Shorteners with Tracking

Use a service such as:

• Bitly
• Rebrandly
• TinyURL

These services can provide analytics including:

• Number of clicks
• Device type
• Location
• Time and date of interaction

Tip: Branded short links often improve trust and click through rates.

2.5 Generate the QR Code

Once you have your trackable URL, generate a QR code using a platform that supports dynamic QR codes. Dynamic QR codes allow you to change the destination URL later without reprinting the code.

Recommended platforms include:

• QRCode Monkey
• Beaconstac
• QR Code Generator Pro

Refer to Section 1 for general QR code creation guidance.

2.6 Monitor Analytics

2.6.1 Option A: Google Analytics

If you are using UTM parameters:

1. Log in to Google Analytics.
2. Navigate to Acquisition → Campaigns.
3. Locate the campaign name (e.g. promo2025).

Key Metrics to Review

• Sessions from the QR source
• Bounce rate
• Conversion goals such as:
  • Form submissions
  • Purchases
  • Downloads

2.6.2 Option B: URL Shortener Dashboard

If using Bitly or another URL shortening service:

1. Log in to your dashboard.
2. Select the specific QR code URL.
3. Review:
   • Clicks
   • Referrals
   • Devices
   • Locations

2.7 Tips for Effective QR Tracking

• Use unique URLs for different print materials or locations.
• Label campaigns clearly with consistent UTM naming conventions.
• Test the QR code before publishing.
• Monitor performance regularly and adjust campaigns based on the results.

2.8 Optional: Use a Dynamic QR Code Platform

Platforms such as Beaconstac, Scanova, and Flowcode offer additional functionality, including:

• Centralised analytics dashboards
• Editable destination URLs without reprinting QR codes
• Mobile engagement and user behaviour data

These platforms can be particularly useful for organisations running ongoing marketing campaigns or managing multiple QR codes.