Pre-printed vs. dynamic QR codes: how to choose the right technology for your pilot?

The choice between pre-printed (pre-printed) and dynamic QR codes is not a black-and-white story. It depends entirely on where you are today as an organization: your use case, your production process, your packaging design and your data infrastructure.

When do you choose pre-printed QR codes?

Pre-printed QR codes are often the right first step when your production line is not yet ready for inline or dynamic printing. Consider limitations in speed, print quality or consistency.
But importantly: this is not a ‘temporary solution. If you do it smartly, you will lay the foundation for the future with this. By considering format, positioning and design now, you can easily switch to dynamic QR codes later - without redesigning or retesting your packaging. 

When are dynamic QR codes interesting?

Dynamic QR codes add value especially when your processes and systems are aligned. They allow you to modify content without reprinting and provide access to data and tracking. 

This provides:

• better traceability
• more efficient operations
• flexibility in communications and campaigns

But: many companies think they are ready for dynamic, while internally there is still too little alignment between data, packaging and production.

The real question is not ‘what technology?’

The key question is: What is the best next step, given your current situation?
Not every organization needs to go dynamic right away. Sometimes a phased approach is smarter and more cost-effective.

Conclusion

The choice between pre-printed and dynamic is not an end point, but a journey.
Start where you are today, but make sure your choices don't block your future. If you get that right, moving to dynamic QR codes later will be logical, manageable and at no extra cost.