A QR code is a type of two-dimensional codeUnlike linear barcodes, these types of codes can store much more information. Currently, QR codes are increasingly used for various purposes.
In this post I am going to talk about QR codes and their different uses, as well as the advantages of this type of code and how to generate a QR code for free. So if you want create QR code for your business or learn how to read one, stay until the end (or skip to the section of your interest). Shall we start?
What is a QR code?
A QR code ―or in English Quick Response Code‘quick response code’― is a quadrangular space where information is stored that is made up of pixels or small squares of contrasting colors, generally black and white.
The speed of reading this type of code is due to the three squares that are located in the two upper corners and the lower left. These elements are responsible for indicating the location of the code and that the reading is accurate and fast. See an example of QR You can read it with your cell phone camera!
Types of QR codes
- Static codes
- dynamic codes
How was the QR code created?
It was created by Denso Wave in the 1990s due to linear limitations, but its use was limited to the automotive production process.
Over the years, it began to be used in various sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, etc. to control merchandise and respond to consumer demands regarding clarity in the companies’ production processes.
Thanks to the good acceptance of the industries and its popularity, the QR code was released for free use to the general public in 2002. With the intention that this code reach the largest number of people.
Now the QR code is a tool for companies of all sizes and industries and for education. Its popularity around the world took a decade and it was not until after 2012 that it became popular in areas such as marketing and advertising worldwide.
💡Tip: I invite you to learn about it and other types of barcodes in this article, which will surely be of great help in your entrepreneurial path.
What is a QR code for?
One of the main differentiators of one of the most used two-dimensional codes in the world is that it has the capacity to store more than 7,000 data in a very small space. Amazing and very helpful!
While barcodes were limited to logistical and fully commercial use, QR codes can store a variety of more sophisticated types of information. Here is a list of the main uses of QR codes:
- Wi-Fi network connection
- Automatic sending of messages to WhatsApp
- Dissemination of social networks, digital catalog, or discount coupons
- Mobile App Linking
- Setting up smart TVs or laptops
- Services pay
- Cash withdrawal
- Contactless payment
- Logistics and distribution of packages
- Tickets to cultural or entertainment events
Benefits of using QR code in a business
- Adaptability for different needs
- free use
- easy creation
- Practicality for clients
- Avoid direct contact and spread of disease
- Agility and automation of manual processes
Generate QR code, how do I do it?
It is very simple generate QR codefor this you only need:
- Use a .
- Choose the type of action the code will perform.
- Fill in the data of the tool.
- Download your code to share it wherever you need.
What is a QR code generator?
A QR code generator or QR codes is a tool that makes it easy to create two-dimensional codes. Just as they exist that allow you to set up a business on the internet without the need for technical, programming or design knowledge; a code generator allows you to do it with a few clicks. Try it! Click on the following image and create yours.
How to create free QR code?
As I told you at the beginning of this post, the use of QR codes is free, since the company that has the patent made it public. However, it is necessary to encrypt the information to obtain your free qr code. Don’t worry! The QR code generators exist to make our lives easier and we can make QR code with these tools for free.
Next, I share the steps to create QR code in different formats. Use the one that suits your needs. 😉
Create QR code for a link
You may create QR code for a link, be it to your website, online store or to a document stored in the cloud. To do so, follow these simple steps:
- Enter the qr code generator from Tiendacloud.
- Select the content of your QR Code ‘Website’.
- Type the address or URL of the website, online store, page of a specific product or what you want to share.
- click on generate QR code.
- Download the code!
Create QR code for a PDF, image or flyer
An excellent option to share product catalogs, discount coupons, flyers, educational information or documents stored in the cloud. You want create QR code now? Follow these simple steps:
- Upload your PDF, digital catalog or document to a shared drive in the cloud.
- Get the link or link to share and edit the privacy of the document to make it public.
- Enter the qr code generator from Tiendacloud.
- Select the content of your QR Code ‘Website’.
- Copy the link of your document.
- Click on ‘Generate QR code‘.
- Download the code and determine how you will share it. Whether it’s a sticker in a strategic place or in your physical store, etc.
💡Tip: Use Google Drive, OneDrive or any type of cloud you are familiar with.
Perhaps it is the most used type of code, since the sanitary measures by covid-19, it was one of the options that saved food establishments to show the menu without risk of contagion. We are going to generate QR code so you can see how it’s done:
- Upload your menu in PDF or JPG format to a shared drive in the cloud.
- Make the document public and get the link to share.
- Enter the QR code generator of Tiendanube.
- Select the content of your QR Code ‘Website’.
- Copy the share link from your document.
- Click on ‘Generate QR code‘. Done, now you have your Free QR for a menu!
- Download the code and print it in half letter size or the size you need. Make sure it is legible and eye-catching.
💡 Tip: Laminate prints to keep them longer or place them with glue labels in strategic areas such as tables or the bar of your establishment.
Generate QR code for a WhatsApp contact
You can too generate QR code for your customers to contact you through WhatsApp. A massive advertising tactic consists of creating an advertisement or handing out flyers on the street with a QR code that puts your contact at hand, it can even be added to product packaging to contact the support area.
For generate QR code Contact for WhatsApp:
- Enter the Tiendanube.
- Type in your WhatsApp number (preferably WhatsApp Business).
- Write a pre-designed message so that your clients can write to you easily. For example, I want a quote! I saw this ad and I need to be contacted! Or a message of your choice.
- Click ‘Generate custom link’.
- Download the QR code and copy the link to share it on other digital channels or your online store and enable a contact method.
It is very simple create QR code for free, as you could see above. It’s all a matter of using the right tool and understanding the steps. It’s that simple!
How to read or scan a QR code?
To read a QR code, you only need a cell phone with a camera – and in some cases access to Wi-Fi or mobile data – and follow these steps.
- Open the camera of your cell phone or if your device does not have the reader you can download .
- Focus the code with the camera.
- Click on the popup or banner that will appear on the screen.
- Clever! The code will direct you to the content stored in your data.
I hope this article has been helpful to you. now that you know how generate free QR code for different formats you can continue promoting your business. If you still do not have an online store to reach more customers throughout the country, get it in Tiendanube; the #1 ecommerce platform in Latin America. 🚀
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