Guide to generate QR Code
1 April, 2024
Today, almost all stores, restaurants, etc., be it big or small, accept payments through QR codes. Short for quick response code, a QR code is simply a barcode that contains information about a particular item. When it comes to making payments, businesses use QR codes to store their bank account information. With QR codes, customers can use their smartphone devices to scan the code and pay the merchant. Here’s a guide to generate a QR code for your business.
What is a QR code?
A quick response code or QR code is a two-dimensional barcode comprising of unique patterns. These patterns are encrypted and hold information about a product or service. For QR code payments, the barcode contains a payment link. When customers scan such QR codes, they are taken to payment form where they can choose their preferred payment mode to make the payment. Customers can also use their Unified Payments Interface (UPI) apps to scan the code and make payments via UPI.
How to create a QR code?
QR codes can serve several purposes. For instance, if you run a restaurant, you can provide your guests with a QR code containing the menu instead of physical menu cards. For non-payment related reasons, you can use a free QR code generator typically available online. All you have to do is provide the URL that needs to be linked to the QR code. Some websites even allow you to customise the appearance of the code, add company logo and more. Note that such codes are static, i.e., once generated, they cannot be modified.
Generating QR codes for accepting payments entails a different process. First, you need to establish whether you want to provide static QR codes or dynamic QR codes.
Static QR codes
Once you create a static code it cannot be edited. You can use a static QR code for one-time offers. If you want to change the information linked to the code, you are required to generate a new QR code. You can print the code and place it near the billing counter. When a customer scans this type of code, they will be asked to manually enter the transaction amount in their payments app.
You can request your merchant bank to generate a static QR code linked to your merchant bank account. You can also generate one yourself using the banking app, if such a facility is provided by the bank.
Dynamic QR codes
Dynamic QR codes allow you to change the linked information. A cashier will typically display the code on a POS device or mobile phone. In this case, customers are not required to enter the amount. All they need to do is select their preferred payment mode. For dynamic QR codes, you need internet-based devices to accept payments.
How does a QR code payment work?
QR code was invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara, a Japanese engineer. The objective behind the invention was to find an efficient way to track car parts in the automotive company where Masahiro worked.
The QR code contains a matrix code that can be decoded by optical laser scanners, barcode-interpreting software, or cameras. The QR code has three special position-detection patterns at three corners of the code pattern. This unique placement allows customers to scan the code from any direction.
Merchants can generate QR codes for fixed or variable amounts. As a merchant, you can command the QR code to generate a payment link for customers to scan from anywhere, at any time.
Advantages of QR code
Businesses across a range of industries can make payments accessible via QR codes. The following are ways QR code payments can boost your business:
Cost-effective set-up
Setting up a QR code requires minimal effort. You can generate the QR code on your merchant banking app, print it and place it near the billing counter.
Enhanced security
QR code payments take place over a card network where your card details are encrypted. If the customer has tokenised their cards, merchants cannot store their data.
Speedy payments
QR codes payments are completely digital which means your customers are not required to carry around cash or wait in line. Also, once the customer makes the payment, the merchant’s account get credited with the payment amount almost instantly.
Create a QR code with HDFC Bank SmartHub Vyapar
HDFC Bank’s SmartHub Vyapar is a one-stop solution for your business’s needs. With SmartHub Vyapar, you can accept all forms of digital payments, including QR code payments. After you become an HDFC Bank SmartHub Vyapar merchant, you will receive a personalised QR code. With this QR code, you can start accepting payments online immediately.
Offer a secure and faster payment mode to your customers with QR codes. Download the HDFC Bank SmartHub Vyapar app now!
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.
