Fast, low-cost communication delivery methods are often critical to engaging communities in civic planning projects. Quick Response (QR) codes are making a comeback after a long period of disfavor—and this digital tool is an excellent touchless method for sharing information with a community, collecting input, reaching underserved communities and spreading messages to anyone with a smartphone camera. A wealth of information can be hidden in a black and white square and easily updated, from sharing emergency routes to survey sign-ups and project facts. And all anyone has to do is point their smartphone and scan the QR code to access all the information you've linked.

The QR code is the bridge to information; you'll want to consider the viewer's perception of the code itself and the information it reveals. The placement of the code is important—be sure to situate it in a physical space where the people you want to reach may look; for instance, consider locating a QR code for information about a new park project on entry signs at other nearby parks. When the QR code is accessed, it takes the viewer to content, a website landing page, short video, animation, project contact information or fact sheet.

A word on inclusiveness—QR codes require the use of a smartphone, and since some of your audience may not have a smartphone, it is important to post the information in accessible locations as well. Think libraries, community centers and places of worship, to name a few.

What is a QR Code?

QR codes are large squares that contain information a smartphone translates to link to a URL, document, video or email. They are easy to make using a QR Code creator such as https://www.qrcode-monkey.com or https://www.qr-code-generator.com. The QR code data connects to can also be updated easily, at a low cost and with a small margin of error.

QR codes can broadcast information widely and be used to create a channel for the public to respond without requiring a lot of time or money. Here are just a few examples of how QR codes can be used:

Provide information on a civic planning project with updates that are revealed when the QR code is accessed.
Connect to a project or elected official's contact page with a direct link to send an email.
Track the spread of the coronavirus or other health concerns by connecting to a contact-tracing service.
Activate a survey or a request for input for an upcoming planning project.

The resurgence of QR codes for commercial purposes increases public familiarity with these once mysterious graphics, and experiments with using them can be easy, inexpensive—and very effective. For instance, New York City places them at the bottom of posted building permits, enabling access to information on the progress of the building, issues and timelines, with updates as needed—all available via a quick scan of a QR code.

What are the benefits of QR Codes?

What makes QR codes worthwhile for public engagement and communication?

Flexible release. A QR Code linked to a fact sheet won't ever run out of copies, information can be updated frequently, and there's much less of a chance of losing a digital image than a physical flyer. QR codes let people pull up information wherever and whenever they choose.
Keep information current. Like flyers or ads or even websites, most information-sharing tactics become outdated quickly, requiring repeated rounds of edits and wasteful reprints. QR codes can be updated at the source without changes to the code itself.
Better response rates. Studies have found that QR codes boost the number of responses to direct mail. The combination of simplicity and immediacy can make all the difference in engaging the public in participatory opportunities.

Deciphered Codes

Less than a decade ago, QR codes made a brief appearance on business cards and store signs, but they didn't gain traction, were disliked by many branding experts and required an app to access the code. Not surprisingly, they fell out of favor and faded from the spotlight. The pandemic brought them back as a contactless solution for restaurant menus, contact tracing and mobile payments. Their return, and the increasing familiarity the public has with them, provide the impetus for public projects to incorporate QR Codes into civic planning projects.

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