What Is A QR Code?
A QR Code is a machine-readable code consisting of an array of black and white squares, typically used for storing information for reading by the camera on a smartphone. The easiest and the most common method to scan QR codes is to use your smartphone camera. There are also countless QR scanning apps for smartphones available.
In this article I will show you how to create a QR code in Canva to direct smartphone users to your website, landing page, social media account or to get in contact with you via Phone or email.
Why Use A QR Code?
QR codes provide a quick and convenient way of getting information to a user.
- Great way of connecting offline and online media
- Great way to create a Call To Action
- Can help drive traffic to your website and therefore increase your brand awareness and SEO
- Most QR codes will provide a shortcut to online content that’s updated in real-time
- instant access to more details about a service, product or initiative by just scanning a QR code
What Can You Use A QR Code For?
There are so many uses of QR codes, with a noticeable increase of use during the pandemic, with the likes of restaurants replacing paper menus with QR codes. Here are a few examples…
- Direct Link To Your Website
- Direct User To A Landing Page eg a sign up form
- WiFi Authentication
- Links to Apps
- Online Accounts Authentication
- Hold Information On Your company eg contact information or directions to your office.
- Direct user To product information on a package eg nutritional information
- Contactless Payment
Where Can You Display QR Codes?
There are many places a business can display a QR code…
- Business Cards
- Packaging of products
- Counter of business
- Marketing material such as flyers
- Information brochures
- Door/Window Of Premises
- Sign to give information eg tide times
how To Create A QR Code To Your Website/landing Page
There are plenty of online websites that let you create links to QR code, my favourite is Canva.
Check out my Video showing you how to create that QR code for your business.
Once You have viewed the video, check out my instructions below on how to add the different URLS.
Add Link To Direct User To a Specific Page
Whether this be a landing page or a page on your website…
In the URL section type in your URL eg a direct link to my website consultation form https://zcmdigital.com/website-consultation
Once the user points the camera (or app)- an option will appear for the user to open browser at that URL.
Add in Link To Direct User To Phone
In the URL section type in your number after the ‘tel:’ no spaces eg tel:07779283999
Once the user points the camera (or app)- an option will appear for the user to phone the number.
Add Link To Direct User To Email
In the URL section type in your email address after the ‘mailto:’ no spaces eg. mailto:zoe@zcmdigital.com
Once the user points the camera (or app)- an option will appear for the user to open email app snd email the address given.
Add Link To Direct User To Your Social Media Account
In the URL to your social media accont eg https://www.facebook.com/zcmdigital
Once the user points the camera (or app)- an option will appear to open the browser at that social media page.
note the above pictures and notes were tested on an iPhone 11, results may differ for other phones.
To conclude….
QR codes are a convenient and useful way for your business to give instant information to clients, potential clients, suppliers, members of the public and much more.
However, there are some restrictions when using QR codes such as internet connectivity or if your intended user does not own a smartphone.
I hope you enjoy creating your QR Code…
If you need any help creating a Website, Landing pages or Marketing material please do not hesitate to get in contact.
