Choosing the right link
The code stores your address exactly, so the most important decision happens before you design anything. Use a short, stable address on a domain you control, such as shop.example.com/menu. Shorter links produce simpler codes that scan from further away, and if the menu PDF moves later, you can redirect that address instead of reprinting.
Tracking scans without a paid service
Static QR codes don't count scans by themselves, but your website analytics can. Add campaign parameters to the link, for example?utm_source=poster&utm_medium=qr&utm_campaign=spring, and visits from the code show up as their own source. Keep in mind that longer links make denser codes.
Before you print
- Open the link on a phone using mobile data, not office Wi-Fi, to make sure it loads for everyone.
- Check the page works well on a small screen, since every visitor arrives on one.
- Use https. Phones may warn people about unencrypted http links.
For more on making codes that last, read static vs dynamic QR codes.
