QR Codes are everywhere today. From product packaging to restaurant menus, these tiny black-and-white squares hold a world of possibilities.
But what happens when you want to redirect where a QR Code goes after it’s been printed or shared? Is it even possible?
The good news is that yes, you can change the QR Code destination. It all depends on the type of QR Code you’re using.
In this article, you’ll learn how you can change QR Code destination and why it’s such a valuable feature.
Let’s begin!
A. Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes
Before understanding how to change QR Code destination, you first need to understand the two main types of QR Codes. The first one is a static QR Code.
1. Static QR Codes
Static QR Codes are easy and simple. Once generated, the content or location that they lead to never changes.
Static QR Codes can’t be changed at will. Their destination isn’t trackable. It happens that when you are creating a static QR Code, you encode the information right into the QR Code.
This could be a web page URL, email address, phone number, text, and much more. Once the QR Code has been generated, the QR Code and the content it leads to becomes permanent.
If you are updating the destination, a brand-new QR Code would have to be created, which is why they really only make sense for unchanging content.
2. Dynamic QR Codes
Dynamic QR Codes are the smarter and more versatile cousins of static QR Codes. They are meant to be edited, tracked, and re-used for maximum business use.
One of the most important advantages of dynamic QR Codes is that they can change the destination URL or content even after the QR Code is printed.
This is because dynamic QR Codes store a short, redirectable link rather than the actual destination.
If you print a QR Code that links to a page and the page is updated later, then you are required to simply update the destination in your QR Code dashboard.
That way, you will not need to reprint materials or produce a new QR Code. Just make the update, and the code will work so smoothly, redirecting the users to the new destination.
This feature is a game-changer for industries that deal with evolving content.
Whether it’s switching marketing campaigns, updating event details, or rotating promotions, dynamic QR Codes ensure you’re never stuck with outdated links.
In Summary:
| Feature | Static QR Codes | Dynamic QR Codes |
|---|---|---|
| Content Flexibility | Content is fixed and cannot be changed. | Content can be changed even after the QR Code is printed. |
| Trackability | Cannot track performance or scan data. | Can track scans, locations, devices, and other analytics. |
| Editing | Content cannot be edited once generated. | Can edit the destination URL or content at any time. |
| Reusability | Can only be used for one fixed destination. | Can be reused and redirected to different destinations. |
| Use Case | Best for unchanging content like business details or contact info. | Ideal for marketing campaigns, events, promotions, or evolving content. |
| Reprinting | Requires a new QR Code if content changes. | No need to reprint; simply update the content in the dashboard. |
| Cost Efficiency | Cheaper since no ongoing changes are needed. | Higher initial cost but more cost-effective for ongoing updates. |
B. Why would you need to change QR Code destination?
Imagine printing thousands of brochures, posters, or flyers with QR Codes on them only to discover the link that you used is outdated or no longer relevant.
Or let’s say you’re launching a marketing campaign for an event, but the date or venue changes at the last minute.
In these scenarios, replacing all those materials could cost a fortune—not to mention the time and stress involved.
Dynamic QR Codes eliminate this headache. They allow you to change the destination of the QR Code whenever you want to, even after it is printed.
It is a simple yet powerful feature that may save you from costly mistakes and logistical nightmares.
Here are some common scenarios where this feature can make all the difference:
1. Updated URLs
Websites and digital assets don’t always stay the same. You might restructure your website or move content to a new location.
With a static QR Code, that would make your printed materials useless because the embedded URL can’t be changed.
A dynamic QR Code, however, lets you just redirect the QR Code to the updated URL without having to reprint anything.
For instance, your company may launch a new product and update the product page URL after the QR Code is printed.
Now, instead of making a new QR Code, you may just change the destination according to the new link.
2. Marketing campaigns
Marketing campaigns are usually time-sensitive. A QR Code that is advertising a seasonal sale or holiday discount may become irrelevant once the campaign is over.
Rather than designing, printing, and distributing new materials, a dynamic QR Code enables you to reuse the same QR Code for your next campaign.
For example, A QR Code Black Friday sale can later be linked to a New Year’s sale page. This ensures that all your marketing materials are up and running while at the same time being inexpensive.
3. Error correction
Let’s be real; errors are inevitable. Maybe the URL that you connect to your QR Code is misspelled, or maybe the landing page just does not work right.
With a dynamic QR Code, you would have to replace it entirely to correct the error.
Dynamic QR Codes allow you to correct such errors instantly. You can simply update the destination link in your QR Code management dashboard, and the problem is resolved.
4. Content updates
Events, products, and promotions often change after being finalized. You might need to update event details such as time, date, or location.
Maybe you need to update product information, like pricing, availability, or specifications. If you use a static QR Code, you will have to create a new code and reprint all your materials.
Dynamic QR Codes make that process much easier. You can now update the content linked to such QR Codes in a second, ensuring your audience remains abreast of the same information at all times.
For instance, A restaurant using QR Codes for the menu can change the food items or prices without reproducing table cards or flyer prints.
An event manager can update a QR Code to point to a new schedule or venue map if plans change.
The take: Dynamic QR Codes make these changes seamless.
C. How to make a dynamic QR Code?
You’ll need an advanced QR Code generator to create a dynamic QR Code. And here’s a list of the best QR Code generators available online.
You can go through it to decide on the best one for yourself. For this article, we’ll be using Scanova to generate a dynamic QR Code:
1. Go to Scanova and select the most relevant QR Code category for your use case. Here, we’ll be creating a Website URL QR Code.
2. Select the Website URL category.
3. Enter the link to be encoded and click on Continue.
4. Next, on the page that loads, name your QR Code and proceed ahead
5. On the next page, you’ll see QR Code design options. You can choose from All or Suggested templates for your QR Code.
6. Once you’ve decided on design or no design, you can proceed to download your QR Code.
7. Now you’ll see a pop-up prompting you to sign up for a free trial. Note that you won’t have to enter card details to sign-up
8. Once the sign-up is done, click Download your QR Code.
9. A window will pop up. Here, specify the image format and size for the QR Code to be downloaded. Once done, click on Export.
Your editable dynamic QR Code will be generated.
D. How can you change QR Code destination?
Changing the destination is simple if your QR Code is dynamic. Here’s how:
Step 1: Use a QR Code Generator with editing features
Choose a tool that allows you to create and edit Dynamic QR Codes. Popular options include:
- Scanova
- Beaconstac
These platforms offer easy-to-use dashboards where you can update QR Code settings.
Here’s how to edit the data encoded in a QR Code using Scanova:
Step 2: Log In to your account
Sign in to your Scanova account, where you created the QR Code. Ensure the QR Code you want to edit is listed under the My QR Codes section.
Step 3: Select the QR Code
Find the specific QR Code whose destination you want to change and select it.
Step 4: Update the destination URL or make the changes
- Name: Here, you can change the name of the QR Code
- Category: Using this feature, you can switch the QR Code category—Website URL QR Code, App Deep Link, App Store, Audio, Coupon, Custom Page, Document, Event, and more
- Tags: Here, you can add more tags
Below this, you will see more options, such as:
- Content: You can edit the content you linked to a QR Code
- Advanced Settings: You can enable password protection, GPS location, and lead generation
- Design: You can edit the design again the way you want to
Make the required changes and click Update QR Code.
Step 5: Test the QR Code
Always scan the QR Code to ensure the new destination works as expected. And that’s it! The QR Code now redirects users to the new link.
E. Benefits of changing QR Code destinations
Being able to edit a QR Code’s destination offers several advantages:
1. Cost-effective
You don’t need to reprint materials or create new campaigns again and again. Simply update the URL, and you’re all set, saving you all the reprinting costs.
2. Flexibility
When you change QR Code destination, you basically adapt your QR Code’s purpose to suit changing needs, whether it’s a new campaign or updated product details.
This flexibility comes in handy when you need to change QR Code destination.
3. Error handling
In the real world, mistakes do happen. Editing ensures you don’t waste resources on unusable QR Codes. Just pivot your QR Codes according to your needs whenever you want them.
4. Improved user experience
When users are redirected to the wrong content, it creates a bad experience. Redirecting users to the most relevant and up-to-date content improves the overall user experience.
5. Analytics and Insights
With dynamic QR Codes, you can track scan data even if the destination changes, giving you valuable insights into user behavior.
F. Practical use cases where changing QR Code destinations is important
1. Event management
Let’s say you’ve printed QR Codes for a concert’s ticketing page, but the venue changes. With a Dynamic QR Code, all you need to do is update the link to reflect the new venue.
2. Restaurant menus
A restaurant uses QR Codes for digital menus. If the menu changes seasonally, they can update the link without creating a new QR Code.
3. E-Commerce
Businesses can redirect a QR Code from an expired sale to a new one. This keeps the user journey seamless.
4. Product packaging
Brands often use QR Codes on packaging for product details or tutorials. If the information changes, they can update the link instead of redesigning the package.
5. Real estate
Real estate agents can link QR Codes on business cards to property listings. When a property is sold, they can update the code to show a new listing.
G. Tips for using dynamic QR Codes effectively
- Plan Ahead: Use Dynamic QR Codes for campaigns or content that might change.
- Test Regularly: Scan the QR Code periodically to ensure it works.
- Use Clear CTAs: Add text like “Scan for the latest updates” to inform users.
- Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate the destination link.
- Monitor Analytics: Use scan data to optimize your campaigns.
H. Challenges and how to overcome them
1. Cost
Dynamic QR Codes often require a subscription. Choose a platform that fits your budget and offers the features you need. See Scanova’s pricing here.
2. Dependence on platforms
You’ll rely on the QR Code generator’s platform to make changes. Select a reliable provider with good customer support.
3. Data Security
Ensure the platform follows best practices for data privacy. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Scanova ensures that the data associated with your QR Codes remain safe.
Your data is safe with Scanova as it abides by international data privacy and security standards like GDPR, SOC2, and ISO 27001:2022.
FAQs: How to change QR Code destinations
Q: Can I change the destination of a printed QR Code?
A: Yes, if it’s a Dynamic QR Code. Simply update the URL in your QR Code generator’s dashboard.
Q: What if I don’t know if my QR Code is static or dynamic?
A: Check the QR Code generator you used. If you can’t find an editing option, it’s likely static.
Q: Will the original QR Code stop working?
A: No, users will be redirected to the new destination seamlessly.
Q: How many times can I change the destination?
A: Most platforms allow unlimited changes for Dynamic QR Codes.
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Conclusion
Flexibility, cost saving, as well as user experience have made the difference for those changing a QR Code destination. Using Dynamic QR Codes will make your campaigns forever adaptable and relevant.
Whether you’re updating event details, fixing errors, or running new promotions, changing a QR Code’s destination is very easy.
Just choose a reliable QR Code generator, follow the steps, and you’re all set. So, the next time you create a QR Code, consider going dynamic. It’s a small step but offers very big benefits.