QR Codes

QR (Quick Response) codes let people access information like webpages, email addresses and event information by using their smartphone to scan the code on print materials or digital billboards.

Use QR codes to give easy access to information without requiring your audience to manually type in website addresses. They are often used in print ads, posters, brochures, postcards and flyers to direct people to websites, event registration or surveys. To access the information, the audience needs to use a smartphone camera to scan the code.

QR codes can also be used on EBBs (electronic bulletin boards) around campus, keeping in mind that the code should be large and clear enough to scan using a smartphone.

Note: QR codes should only be used if a hyperlink isn't possible. For example, if you're distributing a PDF online, linking text or images within the PDF is best practice, not using a QR code.

A figure holding a phone up to a digital board, scanning a QR code to register for an event

Use a free online QR code generator

For example, qrcodemonkey. You also can export a code directly from Google Chrome as a PNG file and add it to your materials

Many design programs have built-in QR code generators

For example, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Express, Marq, and Canva

Subscribe to a QR code management system

Track usage and also update where the code takes your audience after it is created and in-use. For example, QR Code Generator Pro

Minimum size

For reliable scanning with most smartphones, a minimum size of 2cm x 2cm is recommended. Always test scan a print of your QR code.

High contrast

Make sure there is a high contrast between your QR code and the background. Most reliable is a dark code on a light background. For example, a black code on white background. Or a UCalgary red code on a white background. If in doubt, test scan a print of your code.

Include a call-to-action

Make sure the audience understands where scanning the QR code takes them. For example, learn more, contact us or register now. It's also important to still include the webpage address as not everyone is comfortable using QR codes.

Example of a QR code combined with a call-to-action

Consider the overall design

While QR codes are helpful for engagement, they shouldn't overwhelm your materials. Use judgement when adding a code to your design, pairing it with a call-to-action after the primary information.

Test, test, test

Print a test copy of your materials at the size your audience will engage with. Is the QR code crisp and easy-to-scan? Can your audience access the code easily? (For example, will they be close enough to scan the poster?) Does the code send your audience to the correct webpage and is the page easy to navigate on a smartphone browser? Ensure the QR code is benefiting the user experience.