After creating a QR Code Challenge, ensure that your players can easily scan the QR code and complete the challenge.
Follow these best practices when designing, printing, and displaying your QR codes
QR Code Printing
1) Customizing your QR code wisely
While it is possible to customize the appearance of a QR code, excessive design elements may make it difficult for devices to recognize and scan it.
When customizing your QR code:
- Keep the overall pattern clearly recognizable.
- Avoid excessive logos, decorations, or visual effects.
- Test the QR code on multiple mobile devices before deployment.
2) Picking the right contrast
Good contrast between the QR code and its background is essential for reliable scanning.
For best results:
- Use a dark QR code on a light background.
- Avoid "negative" QR codes (light-colored codes on dark backgrounds).
- Ensure there is sufficient contrast regardless of lighting conditions.
High contrast helps improve scanning across different mobile devices with varying camera quality.
3) Using High-Quality Images
QR codes should always be sharp and clear.
Avoid using images that are:
- Blurry
- Pixelated
- Compressed excessively
TIP: Instead of taking a screenshot or photographing the QR code, download it directly from the Admin Dashboard to preserve its quality. You may then resize or incorporate it into your own design.
4) Choose an Appropriate Size
QR codes that are too small may be difficult for users to notice or scan.
As a general guideline:
- Minimum recommended size: 3 cm × 3 cm (approximately 1.5 in × 1.5 in)
If players are expected to scan from a greater distance, increase the size accordingly.
A useful rule of thumb is:
Size of your QR code = Distance from the QR code to the scanner / 10
QR Code Placement
1) Picking the right display material
Whenever possible, place QR codes on flat, non-reflective surfaces.
Avoid:
- Curved surfaces
- Highly reflective materials
- Wrinkled or distorted displays
If displaying QR codes on electronic screens, increase the screen brightness and minimise glare where possible, as reflections may affect scanning performance.
Note: QR codes can still be scanned from laptops, monitors, tablets, or phones under suitable lighting conditions. However, printed materials generally provide the most reliable scanning experience.
2) Optimize QR code visibility
Place QR codes where they are easy for players to locate and scan.
Recommended placement:
- Well-lit locations
- Stable, stationary surfaces
- Comfortable scanning height
- Unobstructed by other objects or people
3) Ensure Reliable Internet Connectivity
Scanning a QR Code Challenge requires an internet connection to validate and complete the challenge.
Before deployment, verify that:
- Mobile data coverage is available, or
- A stable Wi-Fi connection is accessible at the scanning location.
*References:
- https://www.qr-code-generator.com/qr-code-marketing/print-qr-codes-correctly/
- http://docs.unitag.io/white_book/Ten_Commandments_of_QR_Codes.pdf
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