How to Edit a QR Code

You’ve probably seen those square barcodes on menus or posters—those are QR codes, and they’re great for sharing things like website links or Wi-Fi passwords. But what happens when the information linked to a QR code changes? Instead of creating a new QR code, you can edit the content behind the code using dynamic QR codes. So what makes a QR code “Dynamic”? Its the ability to update the data within the QR code without having to reprint the QR code. This is done using a link management platform like T.LY.

What Are QR Codes?

QR codes are short for “Quick Response codes” and are those square-shaped barcodes that you often see on flyers or billboards. This data is often a URL, which users can access by scanning the code with their smartphone cameras or our online QR code scanner tool. Businesses use QR codes in marketing campaigns to link to websites, product pages, videos, or promotional materials.

Static QR codes store unchangeable data, while dynamic QR codes allow the linked content to be updated without changing the QR code itself. I always prefer a dynamic QR code to future proof my ads.

Why Edit a QR Code?

When I talk about editing a QR code, I mean updating the link behind it—not the QR code image/file itself. The QR code image/file will state the same but the short URL within the QR code will be updated to redirect to a new destination.

• The linked URL changes.
• You want to update promotional content.
• Analytics tracking requires adjustments.
• You aim to repurpose the QR code for new campaigns.

If you create a standard static URL QR code you will not be able to update the QR code without regenerating an entirely new image/file. But with a “dynamic QR code” you can update the redirect URL at anytime. The T.LY platform makes creating and managing dynamic qr codes simple. You can easily track and update QR codes in real-time as often as you need.

Step 1: Create a T.LY Account

To get started, visit T.LY and create an account. A free account provides basic functionality, but premium plans unlock advanced features like analytics and branded URLs.

Step 2: Generate a Dynamic QR Code

1. Log in to T.LY: Go back to Step 1 if you need to create an account
2. Shorten a URL: Enter the target URL into the T.LY URL shortener. Click “Shorten” to generate a unique short link.
3. Create a QR Code: Click on the QR code icon next to your shortened URL. Customize the QR code design (e.g., color and style) if desired. Adding your logo to the QR code will make it stand out!
4. Download the QR Code: Save the QR code file for use in your marketing materials.

Step 3: Edit the QR Code’s Linked Content

1. Locate the Short URL: Log in to T.LY and find the shortened link associated with your QR code.
2. Edit the URL: Click the “Edit” option and update the URL or content linked to the short link.
3. Save Changes: Confirm the update. The QR code will now redirect to the new URL. Don’t forget to scan it with your phone to make sure it works!

Step 4: Track QR Code Performance

1. Open Analytics: Click on the analytics icon next to your shortened link.
2. Review Data: View metrics such as scan count, geographic locations, and device types.
3. Optimize Campaigns: Use these insights to improve marketing strategies.

Marketing Applications of Editable QR Codes

• Event Promotions
• Product Launches
• Seasonal Campaigns
• Dynamic Menus
• Customer Support

Every day, I see more and more QR codes printed on billboards, menus, and advertisements. But what happens when the website linked to that printed QR code changes? Don’t use static URLs for your QR codes. If you do, you’ll end up reprinting everything when the link changes.