QR codes have been around for nearly two decades. But in recent years, they’ve become incredibly popular and ubiquitous. In fact, according to Statista, 11 million households scanned at least one QR code in 2020 — marking a massive increase from 9.76 million codes scanned in 2018.

 

Today, QR codes can be seen everywhere, from product packaging to restaurant menus and even event tickets. With the rise of smartphones and the need to access information quickly, the use of QR codes has surged, and it’s only going to keep growing.

 

As scannable codes streamline important tasks from marketing campaigns to online ticketing, there’s no better time to flex your design skills with one-of-a-kind QR codes. Here’s how to use QR codes for marketing, eCommerce, and more.

How to use QR code designs for offline marketing

When it comes to marketing, scannable codes are a must-have. After all, most consumers have a smartphone, and QR codes provide a quick and easy way to access information or content. With a simple scan, you can guide potential consumers to a website, to download an app, or even to make a purchase.

So, how can you use scannable codes to upgrade your marketing strategy? From boosting customer engagement to tracking data, here’s everything you need to know about using QR codes in marketing.

Transform your offline marketing strategy

Want to take your offline marketing strategy to the next level? Try adding codes to your print ads, billboards, and product packaging. Scannable codes provide a more interactive and engaging experience for users. 

 

Instead of just scrolling past an ad or reading a boring product package, users can scan a code to learn more about a product, access a coupon, or watch a how-to video. This can help to capture the attention of consumers and encourage them to take action.

Drive customer engagement 

By incorporating QR codes into loyalty programs, you can offer customized rewards based on customers’ purchase history and preferences. In turn, you’ll boost engagement and customer loyalty while collecting valuable data that can be used to tailor your offerings to individual customers’ needs.

 

At the same time, easily scannable codes can help businesses create interactive experiences that can further boost customer engagement. For example, you can use codes to direct customers to a landing page with special offers, or to a video that showcases your products or services.

Track and analyze campaign performance

By incorporating QR codes into your marketing strategy, you can track the effectiveness of any campaign by measuring the number of scans, the time of day, and the location of the scan. This way, you can effectively optimize your online and offline campaigns and maximize your return on investment.

How to use QR codes for eCommerce

QR codes can be an effective marketing tool across every industry, but they’re also an amazing way to improve your customer experience. In particular, QR codes can help eCommerce businesses connect with their customers. By scanning a QR code, customers can quickly access product information, discounts, and even make purchases. Here’s how.

Streamline the purchasing process

One of the best ways to use QR codes in eCommerce? Create a seamless customer journey by streamlining the purchasing process. Instead of manually searching for product information, customers can scan a code and access all the information they need in one place. This not only saves time but also makes the shopping experience more enjoyable for customers.

 

QR codes can also be used for contactless payments. By scanning a code, customers can quickly and securely make a purchase without the need for physical cash or card payments.

Provide product authentication and verification

Counterfeit products have become a widespread problem for businesses and consumers, but QR codes have emerged as a reliable solution to combat counterfeit products. 

 

By incorporating QR codes into products, businesses can establish a system to verify the authenticity of their products. Consumers can scan the QR code with their smartphones to ensure the product they’re purchasing is genuine, which can help build trust and transparency with your brand.

Using QR codes in events and conferences

When it comes to event planning and management, scannable codes can be a great tool to make your events more efficient and engaging. By providing easy-to-scan codes for attendees, along with clear instructions on how to use the codes, you can streamline event check-in and other key processes. Here’s how to use QR code tickets, business cards, and more for your next event.

Simplify event registration and ticketing

With QR codes, you can expedite the check-in process with online event registration and ticketing. Instead of waiting in long lines to check in at the registration desk, attendees can simply scan a QR code on their ticket or confirmation email to quickly check in.

 

Plus, QR codes create better event experiences by personalizing the registration and check-in processes. Attendees can receive a QR code via email or text message that they can scan upon arrival, which will automatically provide them with personalized event information.

Enhance networking and information sharing at events

QR codes can also be used to provide personalized content during the event. For example, if you’re running multiple sessions simultaneously, attendees can scan a code that takes them to a specific event agenda tailored to their interests. 

 

Scannable codes can also encourage networking at professional events. For networking conferences and information-sharing events, attendees can scan each other’s QR codes to exchange contact information and business cards.

How to use QR codes in education

QR codes are becoming increasingly popular in education — and for good reason. Above all else, they offer a quick way to share information with students without the need for them to type in long URLs or search for specific websites. Here’s how to use QR codes in education to create better, more interactive experiences for students.

 

Engage students with interactive learning experiences

To keep students engaged and interested in lessons, consider creating interactive experiences like scavenger hunts or treasure hunts. Teachers can create a series of QR codes that lead students around the classroom or school, asking them to complete tasks or answer questions along the way. 

Teachers can also use scannable codes to share resources and content with students. For example, teachers can create posters with QR codes that link to videos, websites, or other resources related to the current topic. This way, you’ll allow students to explore the topic in more depth and at their own pace.

Streamline administrative tasks with QR codes

To save time on administrative tasks, teachers can use scannable codes for attendance tracking and student identification. Instead of manually ticking off a student’s name on a sheet, teachers can create a QR code for each student. When the student arrives in class, they scan the QR code using their smartphone, and the teacher will instantly receive a notification that they’re present.

 

QR codes can also provide quick access to campus information. By incorporating QR codes into posters, flyers, brochures, and even in class syllabi, students can easily access campus maps, event schedules, class materials, and more.

How to create QR codes with Picsart

Now that you know how to use QR code designs to simplify your life, it’s time to start creating QR codes. Fortunately, it only takes a few clicks (or taps) to create a unique scannable code — even if you’re not a seasoned designer. Here’s how.

  1. Open the Picsart QR Code Generator.
  2. Type or paste your link into the box to encode your scannable code with an URL.
  3. Then, customize your code with a unique style or frame design.
  4. Upload your logo or choose from one of our logos for a branded code.
  5. When you’re finished, click Export to download and save the design.

Create customized QR code designs with Picsart

Whether you’re creating online event tickets or sharing educational materials, using QR codes can help you save time, money, and peace of mind. From vibrant, personalized code designs to conversion-worthy branded codes, count on Picsart for all of your QR code needs.