QR codes went from "that weird square nobody scanned" to an everyday tool Filipinos use to pay at the sari-sari store, order at a restaurant, and board a plane. But most businesses are still using them the hard way — static codes pointing to URLs they can never change. Here's a smarter approach.
What Is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that a smartphone camera can read instantly. Point your camera at one, tap the notification, and you're taken to a website, a payment page, a contact card, a video, or anything else the creator linked it to.
No app needed on modern iPhones and Android devices — the native camera handles it automatically.
Static QR Codes vs. Dynamic QR Codes
This is the most important distinction nobody talks about:
| Static QR Code | Dynamic QR Code (Linky) | |
|---|---|---|
| Destination URL | Burned into the code — can never change | Points to a short link you can update anytime |
| Scan tracking | None | Every scan is logged with country, device, time |
| If destination changes | Must reprint the QR code | Just update the short link — no reprint needed |
| Use for printed materials? | Risky | Yes — safe even for long-run prints |
| Cost to update | Reprint cost | Free — edit in your dashboard |
Linky generates dynamic QR codes — every code points to a Linky short link. When you need to send people to a different page, you update the short link, not the code.
When Should You Use a QR Code?
The rule is simple: use a QR code whenever someone is physically present but not yet online, or when typing a URL would be inconvenient. Here are the highest-impact situations:
Product Packaging
Print a QR code on your box, bag, or label that links to a tutorial video, warranty registration, reorder page, or your Linky page. A customer who just received your product is at peak interest — make it frictionless for them to engage further.
Restaurant & Cafe Menus
Table tent QR codes linking to your digital menu are now expected, not novel. But go further — add a second QR code for your GrabFood or Foodpanda page, your loyalty programme, or a link to leave a Google review. Each one can be tracked separately.
Flyers, Posters & Tarpaulins
Any printed material with a call to action benefits from a QR code — event registrations, promo pages, portfolio sites. Keep the QR large (minimum 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm) and always test scan from the print before distributing.
Business Cards
Instead of cramming every social handle onto a 9 x 5 cm card, print one QR code that links to your Linky page. One scan and the recipient has your Instagram, LinkedIn, website, email, and calendar booking link — all in one place.
Events & Exhibitions
Booth banners with a QR code to your product demo video or lead capture form. Conference name badges with a QR to your LinkedIn. Pop-up stall signage with a QR to your GCash payment. Every touchpoint becomes interactive.
In-Store Signage
Physical stores can extend the customer relationship digitally: QR codes near products link to reviews, tutorials, or bundle deals. A QR at checkout links to your loyalty app or Facebook page.
How to Create a Custom QR Code with Linky
- Log in at linky.ph/login and go to QR Codes in the sidebar.
- Enter the destination URL.
- Customise the design: dot style, eye shape, foreground colour, logo, frame.
- Download a high-resolution PNG or SVG for print production.
- Test it. Scan from the downloaded file before sending to print. Always.
QR Code Design Rules You Cannot Break
- Minimum size: 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm for print.
- Contrast is non-negotiable: Dark foreground on a light background.
- Logo coverage limit: no more than 30% of the code area.
- Quiet zone: Leave a margin of at least 4 modules around the entire code.
- Test on multiple devices before printing.