How to Use Smart QR Codes with Time-based Automation

Ever wondered how challenging it is for retailers to manage multiple QR codes for different promotions, or for restaurants to update their menus about four times a day? At some point, they’ve likely wished for a single QR code that could automatically display different content based on the time of day.

Well, guess what? A smart QR tool like that actually exists! Smart QR codes aren’t your regular QR codes; they are designed to meet real-world business needs with seamless automation and intelligent time-specific redirection. These dynamic QR codes automatically update what they display based on the time of day—no manual updates, no code replacements.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create and use time-based smart QR codes, why they matter, and how they simplify operations across restaurants, retail, hospitality, and more.

How do smart QR codes with time-based automation work?

Smart QR codes operate using smart rules, which are predefined conditions that determine the content users see upon scanning the code. Time-based automation is one such rule that enables these QR codes to automatically redirect to different content based on the time of day. This eliminates the need to create multiple QR codes for different time-based offerings or to frequently update the same QR code. 

For instance, a smart QR code at a cafe can automatically display the breakfast menu in the morning (from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) and the dinner menu in the evening (from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.), eliminating the need for manual updates.

By automating content delivery, these QR codes significantly increase operational efficiency and ensure users receive the most relevant and up-to-date information whenever they scan the code. Moreover, this seamless experience drives higher user engagement and strengthens the connection between a brand and its customers.

How to create a time-based smart QR code 

Follow these steps below to create a smart QR code with time-based smart rules. 

Step 1: Log in to QRCodeChimp.

Go to the “Solutions” page and choose “Smart QR Code.”

Step 2: Create your QR code.

You can either:

a) Start fresh by entering the link (URL) where you want users to go when they scan.

Or, b) Pick an existing QR code from your saved list.

Note: We recommend using your existing QR codes. It provides you with the flexibility to make updates anytime you want and have full control over the content. 

Step 3: Set time-based rules.

This tells your QR code what to show and when.

3.1: Click on “Add Smart Rule.”

3.2: Select Time, enter the “start” and “end” times for when this rule should work, and select the right timezone. Then click on “Apply Rule.”

Step 4: Add more time-based rules (if needed).

Want the QR code to show different things at different times? Click “Add More” and repeat the process.

Step 5 (Optional): Set a backup link. 

This is for when someone scans the code “outside” your time slots. You can set a “default link” (fallback destination) that opens when none of the time-based rules apply.

Step 6: Customize your QR code.

Pick your favorite colors, shapes, logos, and stickers to make your QR code stand out.

Step 7: Save and test your QR code.

Download it and scan it on your phone (or other devices) to make sure it’s working correctly.

💡 Pro tip: Try scanning it during one of the time slots you set to see if it opens the right page.

Why businesses should use time-based smart QR codes 

Smart QR codes with time-based rules allow businesses to connect with their audiences more meaningfully. Here’s why they should be using them. 

👉 Redirects to relevant content at the right time

With smart QR codes, you can ensure users see the content that’s most relevant at the time they scan the code. For example, when a customer at a restaurant scans a QR code in the morning, they are redirected to the breakfast menu, and when they scan it at a specific time in the evening, they are taken to the dinner menu. This real-time relevance enhances engagement and drives user action.

👉 One QR code for multiple time slots

Using the same QR code, you can set multiple time-based schedules or offers. This helps you streamline and organize your campaign, saving you time and effort. 

👉 Enhanced user experience

These QR codes can deliver time-specific content, providing users with a smoother and more personalized experience. The user always receives the most relevant information when they scan the code, which increases engagement and satisfaction, thereby reinforcing their trust in your brand. 

👉 Excellent for time-sensitive campaigns

Smart QR codes are perfect for time-sensitive or limited-time campaigns and offers. These time-aware QR codes can automatically activate and deactivate according to your campaign schedule, ensuring the content remains fresh and relevant at all times. 

Practical use cases for time-based smart QR codes 

Smart QR codes with time-based automation are ideal for businesses with scheduled services or time-limited offerings. 

Here are some practical use cases where these intelligent QR codes can be particularly useful. 

🍜 Restaurant menus

Restaurants can use time-based smart QR codes to serve the right menu at the right time. A single QR code placed at each table can redirect customers to breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus at their respective times, ensuring they view the correct offerings for each meal. These QR codes can also be used to display promotional offerings such as Happy Hour menus or Sunday brunch specials. Hence, they not only enhance the dining experience but also minimize the need for printed menus and manual updates.

🛒 Retail promotions 

Retailers can utilize these time-aware QR codes to enhance their promotional campaigns, making them more dynamic, targeted, and engaging. Think of a retail store looking to promote its Weekend Special deals, BOGO (Buy One, Get One) offers, or flash sales like ‘End of Season’ sales. Instead of generating separate QR codes for each offer, they can use one smart QR code to automatically redirect customers to different offers during their active time slots. This streamlines campaign management, increases engagement, and boosts customer retention. 

🏨 Hotel guest services

Hotels can use QR codes with time-based smart rules to offer guests a highly personalized stay experience. When scanned, a single QR code can redirect to information such as breakfast hours and room cleaning service options in the morning, dining and entertainment recommendations in the afternoon, and late-night services or emergency contact numbers in the evening. Besides enhancing the guest experience, this eliminates the need for printed materials and reduces staff intervention.

🗓️ Event schedules

Time-based smart QR codes can streamline event navigation for guests or attendees. For example, these codes at an event venue can redirect to complete event details or schedules for each session. This further simplifies event organization, reduces the dependence on printed schedules, and creates seamless event experiences.

Between sessions, the QR codes can automatically display other engaging content, such as speaker bios, venue maps, feedback forms, or thank-you messages. 

🏋 Gym or fitness schedules 

Gyms or fitness studios can use these QR codes to offer real-time information on class schedules, keeping members informed and engaged. For instance, a single QR code can display an advanced yoga routine in the morning, a HIIT routine in the evening, and recovery or stretching sessions at night. This ensures members always have the latest schedule at their fingertips. 

Conclusion 

Time-based smart QR codes are a strategic tool for businesses looking to deliver different content at different times of the day with seamless convenience. Whether they’re running a time-sensitive campaign or rotating daily menus or operating schedules, these intelligent QR codes automate and streamline the process, thereby enhancing user experiences.

It’s high time to start incorporating these smart QR codes into your marketing strategy or operational workflow to stay agile and relevant in today’s fast-paced business landscape.

Frequently asked questions