QR codes can go a long way in streamlining various business processes, from inventory management to quality control. That is, as long as they function as intended. Damaged QR codes, however, can result in scanning errors. This, in turn, causes unnecessary bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Businesses adopting QR codes must consider the possibility of having to deal with such damaged QR codes and take proactive measures to minimize their impact. That’s precisely what this blog explores – read on for key strategies on mitigating the effect of damaged QR codes in your business processes.
The Implications of Damaged QR Codes
Damaged QR codes are more than a mere inconvenience. They can have serious implications for your business, including a direct loss of sales. Here are some of the ways damaged QR codes can impact various processes.
Product Tracking: A damaged QR code label may pass undetected through an automated scanning system, preventing you from tracking the products effectively.
Inventory Management: Workers may have to manually input the data for items with damaged QR codes, increasing the chances of errors.
Retail Checkout: Failing to scan a product at a retail checkout can hinder the shopping experience.
Promotions: Customers may be unable to access a promotional offer due to a damaged QR code, resulting in a direct loss of sales.
These are only a handful of the ways your business could suffer without a means to mitigate the impact of damaged QR codes. Read on to learn more about the factors behind damaged QR codes and how to tackle them.
Ways your QR Codes May Be Damaged
Assuming there are no issues with the QR code generation or printing, the primary factor that might render them unreadable is physical damage. Let’s explore some of the reasons for QR code damage:
- Environmental Damage: Extensive exposure to weather elements can damage QR codes. For instance, harsh sunlight can cause the code to fade, while moisture may cause it to smear or turn blurry. This is a challenge especially in the logistics phase of the supply chain. Extreme conditions in harsh industrial environments may have a similar impact on QR code labels.
- Poor Handling: Another common, yet avoidable factor behind damaged QR codes is poor handling. User mishandling can cause QR code labels to crumple, bend, smudge, or tear. Even something as simple as a user shoving a flyer into their pocket could damage a QR code on it.
- Poor Printing and Labelling Practices: QR code labels printed using low-quality ink or printers are more susceptible to smudging and fading. Unsuitable label materials like glossy paper and rough textures can distort the QR code too. Materials of poor quality are also more likely to tear or peel off when exposed to rough environments.
5 Ways to Minimize the Impact of Damaged QR Codes
Now that you know the possible ways your QR codes can get damaged, let’s explore the solutions:
1. Using QR Codes with High Error-Correction Levels
Did you know that QR codes come with a built-in error correction feature? Every QR code has some level of error correction. They contain some backup code that your scanner can use to replace damaged or missing parts. When generating your QR code, you can choose from four different levels of error correction:
· Level L (Low) for a recovery capacity of up to 7%
· Level M (Medium) for a recovery capacity of up to 15%
· Level Q (Quartile) for a recovery capacity of up to 25%
· Level H (High) for a recovery capacity of up to 30%
That being said, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to QR code repair levels. A Level H QR code isn’t necessarily the best. This is because the more backup code you add, the denser your QR code becomes. This, in turn, can make it more difficult to scan. Determine the right level of error correction based on the application of your QR codes and how likely they are to sustain damage.
2. Scanning Software with De-blur Capabilities
Environmental factors like harsh sunlight can make your QR codes blurry. Scanning them is not only a challenge but might even be outright impossible. Thankfully, you can use a scanning software with de-blur capabilities to mitigate the issue – at least to some extent. The best QR code scanner SDKs include image sharpening features that can significantly improve the scanner’s ability to read blurry barcodes.
3. Image Contrast Adjustments
Generally, QR codes are printed in contrasting colors – such as black against white. This makes it easy for the scanner to detect and read them. However, smearing due to environmental factors and user mishandling can render the code unreadable. This is why it pays to invest in barcode reader software with contrast adjustment features in the processing stage.
4. Better Handling Practices
The easiest way to avoid damage from user mishandling is to incorporate better handling practices. It might sound a bit obvious, but it’s a solution businesses often underestimate. By training your employees to handle items properly and enforcing strict rules, you can significantly reduce the chances of damage. You may also consider implementing QR code checks and replacements after rigorous processes.
5. Improved QR Code Printing and Labelling Practices
Here’s another simple, yet effective way to minimize damage to your QR codes. Print them on high-quality paper to reduce the likelihood of tears and creases. Likewise, using high-quality ink can reduce fading and smearing. Investing in better print and label quality eliminates the costs associated with damaged QR codes. This is what makes it worth the investment. If you expect the QR codes to be exposed to harsh conditions, it’d be smart to laminate them with a plastic sheet.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several measures you could take to mitigate the impact of damaged QR codes. Don’t let broken QR codes hamper your operations! Make use of QR code repair capabilities and sophisticated scanning software to ensure error-free functioning. Investing in robust scanning capabilities and better labeling practices is sure to pay off. Explore the best QR code printing and scanning solutions and find out what works for your business.
