A QR code survey takes away the friction of long links, logins, or clunky forms and replaces it with a single quick scan. This makes it easy for people to participate on the spot. You can put them on flyers, receipts, posters, or product packaging, basically anywhere your audience might see them and instantly connect people to your survey.
If you’re collecting customer feedback in a café, running a post-event satisfaction poll, or gathering employee opinions, a QR code-based survey is the best option to go with.
Read the article and discover how to create a QR code survey using a form builder, the smartest ways to use it, and how to track every scan to turn responses into real, actionable insights.
Why QR code surveys are more popular today
With one scan, users are instantly on a mobile-friendly survey page and can start answering right away.
This convenience is a big reason why these surveys are gaining popularity in retail, hospitality, education, and events. They meet people where they are, whether standing in a checkout line, sitting at a restaurant table, or attending a conference. Plus, since most people now carry smartphones everywhere, the technology works seamlessly without extra apps or downloads.
- They remove friction for respondents – No one has to type a long URL, download an app, or fill out a paper form. A quick scan instantly opens the survey on their phone.
- Perfect for on-the-spot feedback – These surveys can be placed on menus, posters, receipts, or event passes, so people can respond while the experience is fresh.
- Work anywhere, anytime – With nearly everyone carrying a smartphone, a QR code survey is always accessible, whether someone is in a store, at an event, or on public transport.
- Real-time data collection – Businesses and organizations can act on feedback immediately, helping improve customer experience faster than traditional surveys.
- Trackable and measurable – You can see scan counts, devices used, and even geographic data, making it easier to understand engagement and improve targeting.
- Versatile across industries – From retail and hospitality to education and healthcare, these surveys fit seamlessly into both physical and digital spaces.
QR code surveys vs. other survey methods: A quick comparison
Steps to create an effective QR code survey with a form builder
1. Set your goal and target audience
– Decide the purpose of your survey: customer feedback, event evaluation, product testing, or employee engagement.
– Identify who will be scanning the code so you can tailor the tone, language, and questions.
2. Create your survey in TIGER FORM
– Log in to your TIGER FORM account.
– Choose a survey form template or start from scratch.
– Add your questions, keeping them short, clear, and bias-free. Aim for 5–7 questions to encourage completion.
3. Optimize for mobile
– TIGER FORM helps to create mobile-friendly surveys by default, but check the layout on different phone sizes.
– Make sure buttons are easy to tap, text is readable, and the survey loads quickly.
4. Generate your QR code
– Once your survey is ready, generate the QR Code
– Customize the form design by adding your brand colors or logo for better recognition.
– Download it in high resolution for both print and digital use.
5. Test before sharing
– Scan the QR code using multiple devices (iOS, Android) to instantly confirm it opens the survey.
– Check if all questions display correctly and if any skip logic works as intended.
6. Place your QR code strategically
– Add the QR code form to posters, flyers, receipts, menus, event passes, social media posts, or product packaging.
– Pair it with a short, clear call to action, such as “Scan to Take Our Survey” or “Share Your Feedback Here.”
7. Track scans and analyze results in TIGER FORM
– Use built-in analytics feature of the form creator to monitor scan counts, completion rates, and response trends.
– Apply insights to improve products, services, or event experiences in real time.
12 effective ways to use QR code surveys
- QR codes on product packaging for post-purchase feedback
Adding a QR code on product packaging is a simple but effective way to capture customers’ impressions while the purchase is still fresh in their minds. Whether it’s on a coffee bag, a tech gadget box, or a skincare bottle, the code can link to a quick survey about their buying experience, product quality, or satisfaction. This not only gives you valuable feedback but also shows that your brand values customer input.
- Event programs or tickets for instant attendee reviews
Placing a QR code on event programs, lanyards, or tickets makes it easy for attendees to share their thoughts before they even leave the venue. Since the experience is still fresh, you’re more likely to get honest, detailed feedback. This method works for everything from conferences and concerts to small community workshops.
- Table tents in restaurants to gather dining experience ratings
In restaurants and cafés, QR codes menus, or receipts can invite guests to rate their food, service, and overall experience. The immediacy of scanning while still at the table increases response rates, and you can use the data to make quick service improvements.
- QR codes on restaurant takeout bags for delivery feedback
If you offer takeaway or delivery, adding a QR code to the bag or food container makes it easy for customers to rate packaging quality, food temperature, and delivery speed. This is especially useful for spotting recurring issues with orders.
- QR codes on menu boards for new dish ratings
When launching new dishes or seasonal specials, placing a QR code near the menu board allows diners to share quick feedback on taste, presentation, and value. This helps you decide whether to keep the item permanently.
- Employee bulletin boards for workplace feedback
For internal feedback, posting a QR code on an employee bulletin board or in common areas like break rooms helps collect anonymous opinions about workplace culture, policies, or new initiatives. This employee feedback form makes it easy for employees to share their views without the pressure of in-person meetings.
- Posters in public spaces for community input
Local councils, non-profits, and community organizations can place QR codes on posters in libraries, parks, bus stops, or community centers to gather public feedback on projects, events, or policy proposals. Because QR codes are accessible to anyone with a smartphone, this method can widen participation.
- On customer invoices or receipts for service feedback
Adding a QR code to printed or digital receipts invites customers to rate their experience right after a purchase. This works well for retail shops, delivery services, and online orders where timing is key for capturing feedback.
- On product instruction manuals for usability feedback
Including a QR code in an instruction manual or setup guide allows users to share their thoughts on ease of use, clarity of instructions, or product performance. This can be especially valuable for tech products, furniture, and appliances.
- In hotel rooms for guest satisfaction surveys
Hotels can place QR codes on desk cards, bathroom mirrors, or welcome brochures so guests can share feedback on their stay in real time, instead of waiting for an email after checkout. This allows staff to address issues immediately.
- On digital displays at events or stores for quick polls
A QR code on a TV screen, projector slide, or digital sign can drive engagement during events, store openings, or promotions. This works especially well for quick one-question polls or instant feedback on presentations.
- Email signatures or newsletters for ongoing feedback
Businesses can add a QR code to their email signature or monthly newsletter to make it easy for clients, subscribers, or partners to share feedback anytime. It creates a constant, low-friction feedback channel.
Best practices and pro tips
Keep surveys short for faster responses
Attention spans are limited, especially when someone is scanning a QR code in a busy environment. Aim for 5–7 questions that can be completed in under two minutes. According to HubSpot’s guidance, shorter surveys lead to higher completion rates because people are more likely to finish something that feels quick and easy. Every question should serve a clear purpose if it doesn’t directly help you gather actionable insights, cut it.
Use clear CTAs near the code
A QR code works best when people instantly understand what they’ll get after scanning it. Add a short, clear call-to-action right next to the code, such as “Scan to Share Your Feedback,” “Help Us Improve. Take Our 2-Minute Survey,” or “Vote for Your Favorite.” This grabs attention and sets the expectation for how long the survey will take and what it’s about.
Optimize the landing page
Once someone scans your QR code, the survey should open instantly and display perfectly on any device. Make sure the landing page is mobile-responsive, loads in under three seconds, and is free of unnecessary distractions. Use clear headings, readable fonts, and buttons that are easy to tap. If the survey is part of your website, ensure the page is keyword-optimized so it’s also discoverable through search engines. A smooth post-scan experience is the difference between a completed survey and an abandoned one.
Branding QR code for recognition
A plain black-and-white QR code works, but a branded one works better. Add your logo, choose colors that match your brand, and use a short CTA below it. This makes your code stand out visually and reassures people that the link is safe to scan.
Test in real environments before launching
Don’t just test your QR code in the comfort of your office check it in the real-world locations where it will appear. Test it under different lighting, from different distances, and on both iOS and Android devices. This ensures maximum scannability.
Place QR codes where people have time to scan
Position your QR code where people can stop and scan without feeling rushed like on tables in a café, at event check-in booths, on receipts, or in waiting areas. Avoid fast-moving environments where scanning feels inconvenient.
Incentivize participation
While not always necessary, offering a small incentive like a discount code, freebie, or entry into a giveaway can significantly increase scan and completion rates. Make the reward clear near the QR code to grab attention.
Track and act on data quickly
Don’t let your survey results sit unused. Review your QR generator’s analytics and your survey responses regularly. Acting on feedback quickly shows participants that their input matters and can increase trust and loyalty.
Start with your free survey today with TIGER FORM
QR code surveys are an easy and fast way to collect feedback from customers, employees, or event guests. They boost response rates by making surveys quick to access, work on any smartphone without extra apps, and let you gather feedback instantly while experiences are still fresh. They’re also versatile, cost-effective, and easy to update without reprinting new codes.
With a reliable form generator, you can create one in minutes, share it where people will see it, and track your first scan, you’ll start getting valuable feedback in no time.
Visit our website to get started with your free survey today.
FAQs
1. What is a QR code survey?
It is a survey that people can access instantly by scanning a QR code with their phone or tablet. Instead of typing a long link, the code opens the survey directly, making it quick and convenient to share feedback.
2. How do QR code surveys work?
QR code surveys let people scan a code with their phone to instantly open and complete a survey. There’s no need for long links or apps, making feedback faster and easier.
3. Are QR code surveys better than traditional surveys?
Yes, because they remove barriers and allow on-the-spot responses, leading to higher participation rates. They also work anywhere you can place a printed or digital code.