QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These square barcodes can be scanned by a smartphone camera to quickly pull up information like a website, contact details, or coupons. One thing that many people have noticed is that QR codes for the same purpose often change or update over time. So why do QR codes change? There are a few main reasons.
QR Codes Have Expiration Dates
One of the most common reasons a QR code may change is due to an expiration date. Many QR codes are created with a built-in expiration date, usually set by the creator. For example, a restaurant offering a weekly special via a QR code menu may update the code each week. Or a brand running a special promo may use codes that expire after the promo ends. This prevents people from scanning old, invalid codes. So in cases where the QR code is tied to time-sensitive information, the codes need to be refreshed on a routine basis.
Tracking QR Code Performance
Another reason QR codes change is to track performance. QR codes can be created with embedded analytics to track how many people scan them and which devices are used. By changing the QR code, creators can gather data on user engagement over time. For example, a museum may change the QR code for an exhibit every month to see if interest is going up or down. Or a retail business may change product QR codes to see which ones lead to the most purchases. The changing code allows gathering of scan data each time it is refreshed.
Updating The Linked Information
QR codes naturally need to change when the linked information changes. For example, if a QR code links to a certain product page or promo on a company’s website, it needs to be updated if that information moves. Many companies update QR codes routinely if they tend to change webpages or URLs frequently. Outdated QR codes that point to defunct webpages are useless. So keeping them current with the latest URL is key.
Security Purposes
Changing QR codes periodically can also enhance security. If a QR code is used for sensitive purposes like logging into an account or accessing private information, changing the codes at intervals can prevent misuse. For example, an office may issue new QR entry passes to employees each month. Or monthly QR codes may allow access to exclusive deals. By making the codes temporary, it minimizes the risk of them being copied or exploited.
Branding Refreshes
In some cases, QR codes may change as part of a branding refresh. If a company updates its brand colors, fonts, or logo, the QR codes may be redesigned to match. QR code graphics can reflect a brand’s visual identity. So they may be updated to stay consistent with broader branding changes across marketing materials, websites, signage, etc. This allows the codes to maintain a cohesive look with the brand.
Printing Errors
One simpler reason QR codes may need to be changed is due to printing errors. If a batch of printed codes contains errors that prevent scanning, new codes will need to be generated. Things like low resolution, distorted graphics, or improper colors can interfere with smartphone recognition. Rather than reprint materials, generating fresh codes is often the easiest solution.
Cost Savings
Some companies may change QR codes as a cost savings measure. Unique codes on each piece of printed collateral like flyers, brochures, or product packaging can get expensive. Reusing a single code across different batches of material lowers costs. The trade-off is that scan analytics per item become limited.
User Error Correction
Occasionally QR codes need to be updated to correct user errors. If the creator made a mistake setting up the landing page or linked information, a new code is required. The quicker a bad or broken code can be replaced, the better. Users who scan a code and have a poor experience are less likely to interact with QR codes in general.
How Often Do QR Codes Need To Change?
There are no hard rules on how frequently a QR code must be changed. It largely depends on the purpose and use case:
- Promotional or short-term QR codes may need to be changed weekly or monthly.
- Permanent codes like those linking to a company website can be static and remain unchanged.
- For tracking purposes, some creators change codes quarterly, biannually, or annually to gather data.
- Codes with expiration dates are changed upon each expiration cycle.
- Branding refresh codes are updated along with major branding updates, typically every few years.
So in general, temporary or promotional QR codes require more frequent changes, while permanent, long-term usage codes can remain static for longer periods. Apps that generate QR codes will often indicate if a code created has an expiration and when it will need to be refreshed.
How Does Changing A QR Code Affect Users?
For those scanning QR codes, changed or updated codes should not have much effect on the user experience. As long as the new code is placed in the same locations as the old one and links to the same (or better) information, the impact is minimal. The key is proper communication and coordination:
- Notify users of a coming change to minimize disruption.
- Provide the new code in advance if possible.
- Place the new code exactly where the old code was located.
- Test that the new code works and links properly before going live.
- Monitor the transition to check for issues.
- If a code links to something completely new, educate users beforehand.
As long as these steps are taken, changing a QR code should appear seamless on the user side. The only exception is expired or limited-time codes; in those cases, users need to be notified the code is no longer working.
Best Practices For Updating QR Codes
Following best practices for updating QR codes helps ensure a smooth transition:
- Provide sufficient notice – Notify users at least 2-4 weeks before a new code is activated.
- Redirect the old code – Have the old QR code redirect to the new one for a period of time.
- Use a QR code generator – Use a reliable generator like QR Monkey to minimize errors.
- Keep branding consistent – Maintain the same QR code shape, size, colors, and font if possible.
- Update all materials – Change the codes everywhere they appear, both print and digital.
- Announce the update – Let users know through emails, social posts, etc. why codes are changing.
Should I Start Using Dynamic QR Codes?
For companies and creators wanting more adaptability, dynamic QR codes are a good option. Dynamic QR codes automatically refresh on a set schedule, pulling updated content. This avoids having to manually generate and replace static codes:
- Link to always up-to-date product pages.
- Rotate through different landing pages for tracking.
- Show real-time inventory or pricing.
- Display user-specific info like loyalty points or coupons.
The code itself doesn’t change – the linked data updates automatically. This provides flexibility while minimizing disruption. Dynamic QR codes do have a higher learning curve for implementation but save effort down the road.
Conclusion
QR codes change for many reasons – expiration dates, tracking scans, updating information, security concerns, branding, errors, cost savings and user experience. Routine code changes are normal and to be expected depending on the use case. The frequency can range from weekly to annually or remain static for years. Following best practices for updating ensures a seamless experience for users. And for advanced flexibility, dynamic QR codes are worth exploring to make codes smarter and more adaptable over the long-term.