How to convert a file to QR?

Although it is a technology created in the 90s, for a few weeks now we have been observing how the disposition caused by using service systems that allow transferring files or any type of document within a QR intensifies with the aim of achieving easy sharing.

Before continuing, I would like to provide some introductory context to explain what a QR code is? Where do they come from? For what purpose are they used? Before moving on to show you how to transfer a file into a QR with the help of our QR generator.

What is a QR?

A QR CODE is a two-dimensional barcode, commonly shown in a square format that stores encoded information archived in a specific link or domain.

Its inception was in 1994, conceived by Denso Wave, of the Toyota Group, and it was not until 2010 that its use began to expand in the USA and Europe when we were able to see how its application has been growing.

It is worth mentioning that recently, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the development of digitalization, it has become a very common technique that we can use in various formats to deepen or provide information.

The method of deciphering or analyzing the documentation found within these QR codes involves using a QR client, which we usually look for on any mobile smartphone today.

The most common consumption attributed to it is to insert a website also into a physical format like an advertisement, poster, etc. However, we also find a preference derived from the consumption of this technology for various applications such as: sharing PDFs, images, videos, lottery results, and even resetting your Wi-Fi password, etc.

And just a few months ago, we started displaying menus and digital menus via QR in restaurants, bars, and cafes to avoid using paper menus as a preventive measure for Covid.

I have even seen that, in some newspapers, they use these QRs as a way to develop data on paper and guide the customer to other types of content like audiovisual.

A common and necessary question these days is how to (convert) a file into a QR.

The use of digital files, such as images, PDFs, or Word documents is very common today, but if what you need is to insert an option with zero contacts, using QR, you should.

The QR technology has been with our platform for several years now; it wasn’t until this new situation caused by COVID-19 that its value was demonstrated in maintaining a zero-contact policy.

What purpose does a QR serve us?

Initially, this technique created in the Japanese automotive sector aimed to represent an alternative code to the already present barcodes, which were used to classify inventories and car parts within the manufacturing chain, in such a way that it helped to streamline and improve industrial processes.

Around 2010, the patent was released and the use of this technology began to spread, first in the USA and then worldwide.

Regarding the utilities and directed toward what purpose a QR could serve, we usually distinguish between

Storing information and disseminating it

It allows us to store information that we can disseminate. It is very accessible to use and where the client has easy access. In summary, it is a very powerful way to connect the offline world with the online one, as our platform provides a code within a physical support that will lead us to digitized information.

Usually, it links to a website with specific information: from an article, form, etc. Although other options allow for other applications such as storing a document, images, and videos, etc.

And as a marketing tool

Because in addition to storing information, it can also be useful for your business as a powerful utility to be closer to your customers and enable you to enhance your communication with them: understanding what they like most about your business, presenting relevant information, issuing promotional actions, etc.

How to decipher a QR code?

For us to be able to read the data and content found in a QR, it is quite simple. We just need to have a reading app on our mobile device.

Depending on the type of operating system you have on your mobile phone, accessing the data may be different.

Some mobile phones have the capability to scan QR CODES natively without the need to download any applications, such as Samsung, Apple, etc.

However, if you want to have a QR reader on your device, there is a wide range of applications available, both free and paid, for you to install. It will depend on what you are looking for or which features you want: from a reading history to storing the QR codes you have read before, etc.

For Android: you will need to have a tool installed beforehand to be able to read it.

If we have to recommend any app, we would mention: QR Reader, QR Droid, Bar Code…

Another option you might not know is that we offer apps installed on your mobile phone that should serve as a QR reader. Below is the list provided by Xatakandroid when you see that if you already find the Facebook app, Twitter, or the Opera browser, you won’t need to download new applications.

Other phones like Apple Samsung already have it integrated natively, and by simply opening the photo app and pointing at the code you want to scan, you receive the information. A notification appears on the screen to proceed with reading the information behind it.

Once you know more about QR technology, we will tell you in a few simple steps how to convert a file into a QR.

How to convert a file to QR

Choose the file you want to convert

You can (convert) to QR almost any type of file: whether it’s a jpg, png, tiff, pdf, etc.

And you can not only (convert) a file but also QR, etc.

Store in a domain

You must have hosting or a website where you can host your QR. If you have your own website, using an FTP host will be quite easy; you just access, upload your file, and define the website that will show the content you need to display.

However, in most cases, and I assume that’s why you’re here, it’s because you don’t have your own domain, yet you would like to encode specific information to offer it and have it accessible via QR code.

If that’s the case, you don’t have to worry because you are in the right place. At Haztucartadigital, we provide you with our QR CODE generator without needing your own domain to have uploaded the information required to generate the QR CODE of your file.

We offer you a space on our domain and our hosting where you can upload your file and receive in return your QR that you can scan and share with your guests, friends, etc.

Choose a QR generator

Select the QR generator that interests you most to convert your QR. There are many ways and alternatives; here, we will take the opportunity to show you our generator.

We offer you our completely free generator so that you can (convert) your file to QR.

You can choose other services, but the value of our QR generator is that we provide you with a free, simple, and instant platform. With our Freemium plan, you get your QR without needing to manage any payment.

Check your QR code

It is important that once the generator returns the QR to you, you check and validate that it is working correctly. To do this, take your mobile phone or smartphone/tablet, open your QR reading app, and scan it to validate that what you read is indeed your file and information.

Access your QR

Once your QR is created, you will need to have it in a file format that allows you to share it, print it, and make it public.

The format in which you will be able to download it is a high-quality graphic file format compressed into 24 bits: PNG, which you can modify and work with: resize, embed in a design, etc.

The key point is that it does not have a background color, so you can place it on any graphic piece you have.

Create and print your QR

In the PNG model in which we will provide you with the code, you will be able to use it to add it to a design, signage, photography, or corporate design pieces like cards, flyers, etc.

You will even be able to include it in digital design formats intended to disseminate it across digital platforms such as publications on Facebook, websites, etc.

Communicate the content

As for promoting and disseminating your QR, it will depend on the commercial strategy you choose and the purpose behind your decision to use this technique in your business.

Here we offer you some recommendations on how to disseminate it and use it in physical supports.

• Stickers/Adhesives: If you have a business, for example, a restaurant or café, the best way to make your QR visible is through stickers placed on your tables, counters, decorative supports, etc. Your customers will be able to access the information clearly and easily.
• A tip we recommend is to make the stickers medium-sized, meaning they shouldn’t be too small to see or too large to seem exaggerated. We suggest a size of 7×3.5 cm for your stickers. If you need help, we have a variety for you.
• Labels: Complete your dish labels with additional information by adding a QR for extra information.
• Flyers: If your commercial strategy includes distributing promotional flyers, do not hesitate to use it in this support to connect the physical world with your virtual reality. A new way for both your customers and potential customers to connect with your business and access information. For example, a hair salon could list all its services and treatments in a code, or a café could offer its menu through this format. You could also use it to provide your customers with a promotion or discount, or a form on a landing page to collect contacts.
• Showcases: Another way to provide and expose your QR is by placing it in your establishment’s display case with a visible adhesive to catch attention. Include interesting information alongside your menu so that both your current and potential customers see it, or promote your social networks or website.

These are just a few examples, and there are many possibilities to analyze and share your QR among your customers and potential clients, as well as in your stationery, across vehicles, product packaging, etc.

Now that you know all this, what are you waiting for to start using QRs for your business? At Haztucartadigital, we provide you with our QR generator to help you get started.