A dynamic QR code embeds a short redirect URL managed via a backend, not the final target. The destination can be changed at any time without reprinting the code. Every scan can also be tracked anonymously.
A static QR code encodes the target URL directly into the code matrix. Once printed, the destination cannot be changed and no tracking is available. Best suited for unchanging content such as Wi-Fi credentials or vCards.
A vCard QR code encodes digital business card information (name, phone, email, address) in the vCard format directly inside the code. When scanned, the smartphone opens a contact-save dialog automatically — no internet required.
The redirect URL is the short URL embedded in a dynamic QR code (e.g. qrt.ch/abc) that the backend resolves to the actual destination. The printed code remains unchanged while the destination is editable any time.
QR codes support four error correction levels: L (7%), M (15%), Q (25%), and H (30%). Higher levels tolerate more damage but produce a denser code matrix. Logos require Q or H for reliable scanning.
A module is the smallest square element of a QR code — either black or white. The number of modules per side (21 to 177) defines the data capacity and is referred to as the "version" 1 through 40.
The quiet zone is the white border around a QR code, which must be at least four modules wide. Without it, scanners have trouble reliably detecting the code — especially on dark backgrounds or in dense surroundings.
The three large squares in the corners of a QR code (top-left, top-right, bottom-left) are finder patterns. They allow scanners to recognize the code immediately regardless of rotation or perspective.
Depending on version and error correction, a QR code can store up to 7,089 numeric, 4,296 alphanumeric, or 2,953 binary characters. URLs are typically encoded as alphanumeric. Dynamic QR codes use very short URLs and therefore work with minimal module count.
When tracking is enabled, the backend records the timestamp, approximate region (country/city), and device type of each scan of a dynamic QR code — compliant with Swiss nFADP and without personal identifiers.
The scan rate indicates how many people actually scan a QR code relative to the number of possible touchpoints (posters, flyers, packaging). It is the central success metric in QR code marketing.
In QR code context, a conversion is the intended action after the scan — newsletter sign-up, app download, purchase, or reservation. It is measured via the destination URL of the dynamic QR code and represents the true campaign success metric.
A GS1 QR code follows the GS1 standard and contains structured product data such as item number (GTIN), batch, and expiration date. Used in retail and the pharmaceutical industry for traceability and product authentication.
The Swiss QR Code is a dedicated Swiss standard introduced on QR-bill invoices since June 30, 2020. It encodes payment information per ISO 20022 (payee, amount, reference) and is defined by SIX and the Swiss Bankers Association.
The new Federal Act on Data Protection (nFADP, in force since 1 September 2023) regulates the processing of personal data in Switzerland. For QR code scan tracking, data minimization, transparency, and a data processing agreement must be ensured.