How to pass a file in QR code?

While it may be a technology created in the 90s, a few months ago we observed how the trend caused by using product utilities that allow transferring pdfs or any kind of document into a QR code aimed at spreading it easily is increasing.

Before continuing, I would like to provide you with some introductory context aimed at describing what is a QR code? Where do they come from? What are they used for? Before moving on to explain how to convert a document into a QR code with the help of our QR generator.

What is a QR code?

A QR CODE is a two-dimensional barcode that is always represented in the form of a square and that collects encoded data stored under a specific link or domain.

Its origin dates back to 1994, and it was created by Denso Wave, of the Toyota Group. It wasn’t until 2010 that its use began to spread in the US and Europe, when we could see how its application grew.

It is worth noting that in recent months, as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and the amplification of digitalization, it has become a quite common way to use across different media as support to complement or provide information.

The act of discovering or scanning the comments found within these codes is done using a QR code reader, which we can currently find on any mobile device.

The most common function attributed to it is to display a website on a smartphone, as well as an advertisement, poster, etc. We also see that there is interest in the function of this technology for many uses such as: sharing pdfs, images, videos, lottery results, and even memorizing your wifi password, etc.

Just a few months ago, to insert menus and digital cards into QR codes in restaurants, bars, and cafes to avoid the use of paper menus as a way to mitigate Covid.

I have even observed that in some newspapers, they use these codes as a resource to expand the printed digital menu and direct the scanner towards other types of content such as audiovisual material.

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

The use of digital files, which can be images, files, or Word documents, is very common today, and if what you need is to show an option with zero contact, using a QR code, you should.

The QR code technology has been with our platform for quite a few years, and it wasn’t until this new situation due to the CORONAVIRUS that its significance has been demonstrated, aimed at maintaining a zero contact policy.

What is a QR code useful for?

This technique originally from the Japanese automotive segment aimed to be an alternative code to the existing barcodes, used for cataloging inventories and vehicle parts within the manufacturing chain, in such a way as to streamline and improve industrial processes.

Around 2010, the license was released and this technology began to be used, initially in the USA and later in the rest of the world.

Regarding the utilities and the purpose for which a QR code could be useful, we can differentiate between:

Storing information and spreading it

It allows us to store a digital menu to be able to spread. It is quite intuitive to use, and for the user, it is easy to access. In summary, it is a very powerful way to connect the offline world with the online, as with our platform we provide a code in a physical medium that will take us to the digitized digital menu.

Usually, it leads to a website with specific data: an article, form, etc. It also accepts other utilities like storing a document, audiovisual mode, etc.

As a marketing tool

Because in addition to ensuring information, it can be useful to your business and an interesting solution to get closer to your customers and enhance your communication with them: knowing what they like most about your business, showing relevant digital menus, promoting promotional actions, etc.

How to scan a QR code?

To access the data and content you find in a QR code is very simple. You just need to have a viewing service on your mobile phone.

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

Some devices natively include the ability to scan QR codes without needing to download any application. For example: Samsung, Apple, etc.

If you would like to have a QR code reader application on your device, there are a wide variety of applications, both free and paid, available for download. It will depend on what you need or the features you want to have: reading history, storage of the QR codes you have previously scanned, etc.

In an Android environment: you will need a downloaded application on your device to be able to read it.

If we have to recommend an application, we will mention: QR CODE Reader, QR CODE Droid, Bar Code…

Another option you might not know is that there are applications integrated into your phone that can be useful as a QR code scanner. On this website, we leave you a list provided by Xatakandroid where you will see that if you already have the Facebook app, Twitter or Opera browser, you don’t need to download new applications.

Other devices like Apple and Samsung already have it natively integrated, and just by aiming your camera at the desired code, you will receive the information. A notification will appear on the screen to proceed with the possibility and read the data included behind it.

Once you know a bit more about the QR code technique, we will tell you in a few simple steps how you can convert a file into a QR code.

How to convert a file into a QR code

Find the file you want to convert

You can (convert) almost any type of file into a QR code: be it a jpg, png, tiff, file, etc.

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

Store within a domain

You will need to have hosting or a website to host your QR code. If you have your own website, using an FTP client will make it quite easy; you just access, upload your file, and create the website that will show the content you want to display.

Although in most cases, and I imagine this is why you are here, it is because you do not have your own domain, but you would like to encode a certain digital menu to offer and have it accessible via QR code.

If that is your 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 a domain to publish your information so you can create the QR CODE for your file.

We provide you with a space under our domain and our hosting so you can upload a file and receive your QR code in return, which you will be able to scan and share with your friends, guests, etc.

Choose a QR code generator

Look for the QR code generator that interests you the most to be able to convert your QR code. You will find many possibilities and alternatives, and here, just as you are now, we would like to offer you our generator.

Our platform offers you our completely free QR code generator so you can (convert) a file into a QR code.

You will have the option to look for other services, but the advantage of our QR code generator is that we offer you a free, simple, and instant service. With our Freemium plan, you will get your QR code without the need to make any payment.

Validate your QR code

It’s important that once the generator returns the QR code to you, you check and validate that it’s working correctly. To do this, grab your mobile phone or tablet, open your QR code reader app and scan it to confirm that what you see is indeed your document and information.

Download your QR code

Once your QR code has been created, you will need to be able to save it as a file that allows you to share it, print it, and make it public.

The format in which you can download it is a high-quality graphic file in 24-bit compressed format: PNG, which you can edit and work with: resize, insert into a design, etc.

The value is that it has no background color, so you can place it in any graphic piece you have.

Create and print your QR code

In the png format we will provide you, you can use it to synchronize into a design, signage, photography, corporate design pieces such as cards, flyers.

You can even implement it in digital design formats where you can send it in digital formats like posts on Facebook, websites, etc.

Transmit the content

In terms of promoting and disseminating your QR code, it will depend on the commercial strategy you choose and the purpose for which you have opted to utilize this technology for yourself or for your business.

We also offer you some recommendations on how to spread and use it across physical media.

• Stickers/Labels: If you own an establishment, for example, a restaurant or café, the best way to make your QR code visible is through stickers that you will place on your tables, bar, decorative stands, etc. Your customers will be able to access the information seamlessly and easily.
• A tip we offer is that the stickers should be of medium size, that is, not so small you can barely see them, and not so large they look oversized. Our platform recommends a size of 7×3.5 cm for you to create your stickers. If you want our help, we have an offer for you on this website.
• Labels: Accompany your dish labels with additional comments, adding a QR code that includes additional information.
• Flyers: If part of your marketing strategy involves distributing advertising pamphlets, don’t wait any longer and use this support to connect the offline physical world with your virtual reality. A new format for your followers and potential followers to connect with your business and utilize the information. For example, a hair salon could include all its service and treatment catalog in a QR code, or a café could offer its menu using this format. You could also use it to offer your followers a promotion or discount, or a form on a landing page to capture contacts.
• Showcases: Another way to provide information and display your QR code is to place it visibly on the storefront of your establishment, with a sticker that attracts attention. Include interesting information like your catalog aimed at ensuring both your followers and potential customers see it or promote your social media or website.

These are just a few suggestions, and you will find hundreds of alternatives to promote and communicate your QR code among your followers and potential customers, like on your stationery, vehicles, product packaging.

Now that you know all of this, what are you waiting for to start using QR codes for your business? At Haztucartadigital, we offer you our QR code generator so you can get started with it.