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Short answer: In ShortPen, every QR code is dynamic. You can change the destination later, and your printed code still works, unless you change the link (domain or slug). If you do, download a fresh QR and reprint.

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What is a QR Code in ShortPen?

A QR code that encodes your URL (the domain + slug) for a link in ShortPen. Because the link is managed by ShortPen, editing the destination doesn’t break the printed code. Changing the URL does.

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How a ShortPen QR Code works

A QR Code is generated from one ShortPen link. When someone scans the QR, ShortPen redirects to the link’s destination and logs a Scan for that link (distinct from Clicks). This lets you track offline-to-online performance (e.g., posters, packaging).
Think of the QR as another way to share the same link, just scannable instead of clickable. Every scan rolls up under that link’s analytics.
  • One QR ↔ One link Each QR belongs to a specific link object. Analytics, folders, and tags are inherited from that link.
  • Analytics live at link level Link analytics Analytics show Scans (and unique scans) alongside Clicks. Workspace analytics can aggregate across many links.
Want post-scan attribution? Enable event tracking on the link and install the ShortPen Pixel on your site.

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How to enable and download you QR

How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen

Generate, customize, and export your ShortPen QR codes for print or digital use in seconds.

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When Your QR “Changes”

A QR encodes the Link (domain + slug).
  • If you only change the destination URL, you don’t need a new QR.
  • If you change the slug or domain, you do need a new QR.
Learn more: What happens to a QR code after changing a link?
You can customize colors and add a logo when creating/downloading a QR. Customization changes the appearance, not the encoded link.
Learn more: How to create and customize QR Codes in ShortPen

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Where to see QR performance

Open Links analytics to see QR Scans, plus devices, countries, and sources. For broader comparisons (e.g., by folder or tag across many placements), use Workspace/General Analytics.

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Analytics: Scans vs. Clicks (and Conversions)

ShortPen tracks Scans separately from Clicks, with totals, uniques, and trends available in analytics. If you’ve set up events and the Pixel, related conversions can appear in reports
Full analytics breakdowns and advanced segmentation may require a paid plan. Learn more: Understanding ShortPen plans and limits for details.

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Practical situations to use ShortPen QR codes

Events, posters, packaging, POS, flyers, and business cards. For multi-placement testing (e.g., 3 posters), create separate links so each QR has its own URL. Then compare performance by tags or folders.
Learn more: Best practices for QR Codes in offline campaigns

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FAQ

They’re always dynamic. You can change the destination any time by editing the link. Only URL changes (domain or slug) require a new download.
Use SVG for print and design. Use PNG or JPG for quick digital use.