Generating QR Codes in Excel: A Comprehensive Guide to QR Code Creation

Creating QR Codes in Excel: A Handy Guide to Generating QR Codes

In a recent project, I encountered the need to generate QR codes (Quick Response codes) in bulk within Excel for a column containing various URLs. Through experimentation, I discovered several efficient methods for accomplishing this task. In this article, I will outline four distinct approaches you can utilize to swiftly create QR codes in Excel.

Methods Covered:

Using the IMAGE Function (for Excel with Microsoft 365)

Employing VBA Code to Generate Custom Functions

Utilizing Third-Party Add-ins

Using an External Website

Method 1: Using the IMAGE Function (for Excel with Microsoft 365)

If you're working with Excel in Microsoft 365, the simplest method to create QR codes involves utilizing the IMAGE function. This function allows for the direct insertion of QR codes into cells.

Here's how it works:

Select the cell where you want to insert the QR code.

Input the following formula:

excel

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=IMAGE("https://chart.googleapis.com/chart?chs=200x200&&cht=qr&chl="&A2)

Copy this formula across other cells to generate QR codes for corresponding URLs.

Method 2: Employing VBA Code to Generate Custom Functions

For versions of Excel lacking the IMAGE function, you can leverage VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) code to create a custom function for generating QR codes. This method allows for batch generation of QR codes.

Here's how to implement it:

Access the VB editor by navigating to the Developer tab and selecting Visual Basic.

Insert a new module and paste the provided VBA code.

Return to the Excel worksheet and enter the following formula in the desired cell:

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=GETQRCODES(A2)

Resize cells as necessary to accommodate the QR code images.

Method 3: Utilizing Third-Party Add-ins

Alternatively, you can utilize third-party add-ins to streamline QR code generation within Excel. While this approach is suitable for generating QR codes individually, it may not be as efficient for bulk creation.

Follow these steps to employ a third-party add-in:

Access the Add-ins option within the Developer tab.

Install a QR code generator add-in (e.g., QR4Office).

Enter the URL or text to encode and customize QR code properties as needed.

Insert the generated QR code into the Excel worksheet.

Method 4: Using an External Website

If you prefer not to integrate add-ins into Excel, you can create QR codes using external websites and then import them into your spreadsheet. Although this method requires manual generation of QR codes, it offers flexibility and independence from add-ins.

Here's how to proceed:

Navigate to a QR code generator website (e.g., QR Code Generator).

Enter the URL or text to encode and customize QR code properties.

Download the generated QR code image.

Insert the downloaded image into the Excel worksheet.

By employing these methods, you can efficiently generate QR codes in Excel to streamline data management and enhance accessibility.



Disclaimer: The methods described in this article may vary in effectiveness depending on your specific Excel version and requirements. It's advisable to explore each method and determine the most suitable approach based on your preferences and project needs. Additionally, exercise caution when downloading third-party add-ins or accessing external websites, ensuring they meet security standards and comply with your organization's policies.







 

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