QR Codes in Signage: Why, Where and How to Deploy

Updated 2025-09-2935 words • 1m read

A complete, practical guide to use QR codes on posters, packaging and physical spaces: goals, placement, viewing distance vs. size, contrast, error…

1) Goals & common use cases

  • Drive users from physical surfaces to digital: menus, product pages, coupons, apps.
  • Enable traceable campaigns with UTM parameters.
  • Provide persistent info where text would be long (Wi‑Fi credentials, manuals).

2) Size vs. viewing distance

Use the 1/10 rule: QR side ≥ distance/10. Increase to 1/8 in low light or moving crowds. Minimum physical size rarely below 2 cm even at close range.

DistanceRecommended sideContext
0.5 m≥ 5–7 cmPackaging, table tents
1–2 m≥ 10–25 cmPosters at eye level
3–5 m≥ 30–60 cmLarge signage, corridors

3) ECC levels (L/M/Q/H)

  • L (7%): only for pristine, close‑range scans.
  • M (15%): good default for print.
  • Q (25%): better tolerance to glare/occlusion.
  • H (30%): for logos in the center or harsh outdoor conditions.

4) Contrast, colors and materials

  • Dark modules on light background, matte finish. Avoid glossy reflections.
  • Respect the quiet zone (≥ 4 modules) around the code.
  • Colored codes: ensure luminance contrast similar to WCAG AA.

5) Placement and CTA

  • Eye‑level or slightly below, not higher than 1.6 m for handheld scan.
  • Keep stable surfaces; avoid moving doors unless very large.
  • Add a short clear CTA: “Scan to order”, “Scan for menu”.

6) Dynamic vs. static QR

Dynamic lets you change targets and add analytics. Static is robust for offline content. For campaigns, use dynamic with short branded URLs plus UTM.

7) Tracking & privacy

  • Add UTM parameters to the target URL to attribute traffic in analytics.
  • Consider privacy laws for personal data collection beyond the scan.

8) Design with logo & frames

  • Use H ECC if placing a logo in the center. Keep finder patterns untouched.
  • Frames help instructions and brand consistency (“Scan me”).

9) Print & export checklist

  • Export as SVG or high‑res PNG for print (≥ 300 DPI at final size).
  • Test prints at scale under real lighting and distance.
  • Verify multiple devices (iOS/Android) and camera apps.

10) With Orqui QR

  1. Open the QR generator.
  2. Pick ECC M or H, set side and margin, choose solid color or gradient.
  3. Optional logo with rounded corners; keep quiet zone intact.
  4. Export PNG/SVG/PDF and place on your artwork.

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FAQ

  • What ECC level should I pick for print?
    Use M (15%) as a baseline; pick Q (25%) or H (30%) for harsh environments (scratches, dirt, glare) or long viewing distance.
  • How big must a QR be?
    As a rule of thumb, side length ≥ viewing distance/10 (in the same units). Example: 2 m distance → ≥ 20 cm QR. Test on‑site and increase if lighting is poor.
  • Black on white only?
    High contrast is crucial. Dark modules on a light, matte background work best. Colored QRs are OK if contrast meets WCAG AA luminance difference and finder patterns stay clear.
  • Dynamic or static?
    Dynamic lets you change the destination and adds analytics and vanity URLs. Static is fine for permanent, offline uses (Wi‑Fi, menus, PDF with permanent location).
  • Any accessibility tips?
    Add a clear CTA near the QR (Scan to order). Keep enough white quiet zone. Provide a short URL fallback for users without camera/QR reader.

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