Best practices: design, size, placement, and more

Yes. The size of the QR code is an important consideration because it affects how well users can scan it. If it's too small, the code may not be legible; if it's too large, it will take up unnecessary space on the page. That's why it's helpful to size your QR code correctly so that it's easy to scan and looks good on the page.

Size is the most important thing to keep in mind when printing or sharing your Flowcode. Larger Flowcodes are easier to scan and help increase your customer engagement.

Too small of codes usually end up unnoticed or unscannable. If printing on small to medium sized merchandise (ex: business cards or flyers), codes should be at least 1x1 inch. As a rule of thumb, it’s best not to create a code smaller than 1” (1 inch x 1 inch).

If you're uncertain, it's better to be cautious and print the Flowcode bigger. But how big exactly? Practice scanning with your ideal print size and go from there. There isn’t an upper limit on code size, but large sizes are recommended for displays like jumbotrons, billboards, and more where there is a big distance between your code and the phone scanning it.

Keep in mind the considerations we explain above. A 1” code on a jumbotron isn’t going to cut it – but thinking of these tips will make scaling your code more of a common sense issue. Remember that the smaller you make it, the closer customers will have to get.

Flowcodes do not have to be black and white in order to be scanned. Adding color is the easiest way to bring them to life and grab the attention of your consumers!

Dark data patterns and light backgrounds are more easily scanned than codes with lighter data patterns and dark backgrounds, which is why we limit certain colors in our generator. There must be a color difference of at least 70% between the data pattern and the background of your code to ensure scannability.

If you decide to alter your code colors post-code creation, please reach out to [email protected] or your Client Success Manager before activation to ensure you're set up for success.

Add your logo or another branded image to the center of your Flowcode for a consistent scanning experience.

The other thing to consider is the shape of your code. Square or circular codes are more scannable, meaning that you probably won’t need to zoom in on your code to make it scannable.

However, if you opt to customize the overall shape of your code, or the data points of your code, this could affect needing to size up to ensure the same accuracy of scanning.

Where you decide to put your code is also an important consideration. A key question to ask is: how accessible is my code? Does someone have to bend down to scan if you've placed the code at the bottom of an a-frame? Is the code behind a reflective glass window or packaging that makes it especially tough for your phone to read it? Is it on a moving truck?

Ensure your code is in an easy to view and accessible location to ensure that users can accurately grab the code. If your code is from a distance (such as a billboard), size up correspondingly to ensure the same scannability.

Considering the surface or location on that surface you are using will influence sizing. Generally, hard to reach or hard to see places should be treated with a boost in size for your code.

The scannability of a QR code is affected by its resolution. If you cannot print at a high resolution, raise the size by 0.2" per five columns and rows. If you need to print a smaller QR code, use a high-resolution printer.

Applying a CTA on or around the code greatly increases the chances that users will be excited to engage with it. You can use these messages to create scarcity, exclusivity, and intrigue in order to drive traffic to limited edition sales and releases. Our testing has proved that a code with a specific CTA is 14% more likely to get scanned.

A clear and simple call to action for users to follow, like “Scan the code for an extra 10% discount” or “Scan to shop,” will nudge the viewer to act.

Consider a call to Action in the border of your code design or within your creative to boost engagement. Flowcodes with a call to action foster 2X the engagement compared to standard codes.

Learn how to edit your Flowcode to add a CTA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COVgCmJQIl4&t=3s

In addition to a call to action, it's best to include simple instructions with your Flowcode. Many people are new to QR codes, so we recommend including education to ensure that all your customers are able to scan your Flowcode with ease.

Here are some examples if you need help:

You can request a custom code from our in-house design team using the:

Custom Codes can include specific branding assets such as hex colors and fonts.

We also offer self-serve code creation within the Flowcode platform using colors and patterns that have been tested with multiple smartphones to ensure universal scannability.

For any additional questions, please email [email protected] or reach out to your Client Success Manager.