Being Social #36 - More QR code tips

QR codes are used heavily in Asia, but are still a novelty here in the United States. According to Wikipedia:

A QR code (short for Quick Response) is a specific matrix barcode (or two-dimensional code), readable by dedicated QR barcode readers and camera phones. The code consists of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. The information encoded can be text, URL or other data.

While there is software available that will create highly customized QR codes (both in looks and contents), anyone can create a QR code for free at a number of web sites including (and definitely not limited to):

• Kaywa
• Qurify!
• Mobile Barcodes
• Moongate
• ScanLife
  

If you are exploring the use of QR codes, here are tips to help you avoid some of the problems that others have had:

• Create your code using software provided by the QR code reader you are going to use (or that you are going to recommend others use). So, for example, use Scanlife software to create the code, and recommend Scanlife for reading the code.This helps readability. This piece advice works if you’re in a situation where you can indeed recommend to people the preferred QR code reader to use.
• Older cell phones do not have autofocus cameras, so they can have a hard time reading small QR codes. If possible, create a “larger” QR code, like 1.5 inches square (or bigger if on a poster, for example). Those should work well with older phones.
• Print the QR code using a laser printer, so that the image is crisp.
  
• Have good color contrast on the code, e.g., black on white, again to enhance readability.
• Try to limit glare on the code (wherever it is used), since that will inhibit readability. So putting it behind plastic, for example, may limit the codes usefulness, if there is glare.
• Try your QR code with several different readers, so you’ll see how it works. Vcards (in a QR code) don’t always work well with different readers. Also try out the code in different settings. So if you going to put the code on your badge, test it on a badge to see how it is going to work. (You might also consider how people will read the code and where the best place is to put it.)
• If you plan on using your phone to read QR codes, download several different readers, since they all do not work the same (and sometimes you’ll need to try a different reader). Each may read a vcard or mecard differently.
• If you are using the QR code as a replacement for a URL (or some other information), have that information handy in a different form for those that do not have a QR code reader.

Still haven't created a QR code? What are you waiting for? Go and get on the leading edge!

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