Is the QR code getting a second wind for designers in the UK?

In today’s article, Elwyn discusses the potential for another surge in the use of QR codes since their widespread application within the Covid-19 track and trace process.

So the once-maligned QR codes are back with a vengeance in Britain post-lockdown, widely used for venue check-ins via the NHS Covid-19 track and trace app, allowing customers to quickly sign-in upon entry to a venue. It is both fast and efficient.

If you have successfully managed to stay clear of the QR code phenomenon over the past decade or so, here is a very quick definition:

A QR Code is a two-dimensional version of the barcode, typically made up of black and white pixel patterns. They can be scanned with a cameraphone to provide an instant shortcut to resources including websites, landing pages, videos or digital documents (hosted online).

Original barriers.

One reason why QR codes didn’t initially take hold outside of tech enthusiasts was due to the fact that they were not recognised by the native camera apps within smartphones. The laborious process of downloading specialist apps is a surefire barrier to prevent a new system from taking off.

What’s changed?

There has only been one relatively small change, however this change that has generated a seismic impact. QR codes can now be read from within the native camera apps on both iOS and Android phones. This means that your customers will not need to download and install specialist reader apps for their phone. QR codes are back baby!

DID YOU KNOW?...
The QR code system was invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara from the Japanese company Denso Wave.[3] The initial design was influenced by the black and white pieces on a goban. nIts purpose was to track vehicles during manufacturing; it was designed to allow high-speed component scanning.

Where you can use QR codes

QR codes are often suited to a range of print materials, from business cards and brochures to vehicle and building signage. Now that your customers can read QR codes directly from the native camera apps on their phones, reading and activating a link to your website homepage, a landing page or a file download is a great deal quicker than before.

How to create QR codes for your website

QR codes can provide a quick, user-friendly way of directing your target audience to a designated page on your website. We recommend this QR code generator website ( https://www.qr-code-generator.com). This QR code generator is fully browser-based, quick and easy to use. The standard QR code tool is free to use, you can add your company logo or go for a different style and colour options if you upgrade to the pro plan.

The new lease of life

Covid-19 has provided the perfect platform for the return of the QR code. Effective track and trace systems require an efficient venue signing-in system that utilises devices that are in almost everyone’s hands. Enter the dynamic duo of smartphones and QR codes.

So if you are in the process of creating new artwork for your business, maybe it’s time to consider the QR code once again. They look pretty cool, and now they have the added bonus in that they are genuinely useful!