Miscellaneous
- QR (Quick Response) Code
- How to Insert a Graphic into a Document
- Graphic Compression in MSOffice
- Image | File Size
- Stock Photographs | Images
QR (Quick Response) Code

A graphic allowing the user to scan via a personal device connecting them to relevant information. QR codes are to be used on print publications (i.e. handouts, pamphlets, posters).
Contact Communications to obtain an electronic file
TIPS:
- Make sure the QR code is visible and can be easily scanned. If it’s too small or blurry, it won’t work.
- Test the QR code to make sure it works before you use it.
- Be sure to include a call to action with your QR code. Tell people what they need to do after they scan it.
- Make sure the content you’re linking to is mobile-friendly. If it’s not, people won’t be able to view it properly on their phones. As a result, it will defeat the whole purpose of using a QR code in the first place.
How to Insert a Graphic into a Document
When working in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.):
- Place the cursor in desired location of your graphic file within the document. Select Insert, click Picture or Clip Art Icon.
- Locate and select the graphic file name.
- Select Insert.
- Use the control box to resize accordingly. Only use the corners to resize, as the vertical and horizontal controls will not lock proportions and the graphic will display disproportionately.
Tips:
- If the document is to be emailed to a recipient, always check the size of the document first. (File, Save, then File, Properties will show you the size of the document.) Size is not dependent on the length of a document but rather the content.
- The logo does NOT have to be saved in a Word document for later use. The logo is a graphic file that can be accessed and inserted at any time.
Graphic Compression in MSOffice
Default installation settings may affect graphic resolution (i.e. logo is compressed on save resulting in poor quality print output). When creating documents intended for print (other than on-screen/on-line applications), please verify settings in Word, Excel and PowerPoint programs:
- If the document is to be emailed to a recipient, always check the size of the document first. (File, Save, then File, Properties will show you the size of the document.) Size is not dependent on the length of a document but rather the content.
- Open a New blank document
- Click on File, Options (bottom left)
- Click on Advanced tab
- Scroll to Image Size & Quality
- Select All New Documents in drop down menu
- Check off the box Do not compress images in file
- Ensure the ‘default target output’ is at 220 dpi
- In doing so, you have changed settings permanently.
You will need to replace logo files in older documents as you update-print them in order to keep graphic integrity for print.
Image | File Size
Where images and photos are concerned: bigger is better as you can downsize without losing quality. The examples below will help you to determine resolution requirements for printing purposes. Note: if you will be outsourcing your document, higher resolution images are required.
| Print Size | Image Size ppi (pixels per inch) | Print Minimum File Size in mb/kb |
|---|---|---|
| 8” x 10” | 2 400 x 3 000 | 2.1 MB / 2 100 KB |
| 5” x 7” | 1 500 x 2 100 | 3.1 MB / 3 100 KB |
| 4” x 6” | 1 200 x 1 800 | 0.6 MB / 630 KB |
| 2” x 3” | 400 x 900 | 0.1 MB / 105 KB |
Stock Photographs | Images
Localized Stock Photos
Photography, images and illustrations may be used to enhance the appearance of materials or to illustrate medical or technical concepts. An archive of localized images is maintained and available by contacting Communications to obtain an electronic file
Content creators are responsible to verify whether or not they can use an image (for example – copyright) prior to including in their work.
Consent for photo/video/audio
To ensure the privacy of clients and staff, informed consent for photos/videos is obtained, see Photo Video Audio Release form. It is the responsibility of the person taking the photo to file the corresponding Photo-Video-Audio Release form for future reference as required. See Photography and Videography of Clients and Employees for All Purposes policy for more information.
Another option when taking photos in a public forum is to post a general notification advising that “BY ENTERING THESE PREMISES, you are granting Southern Health-Santé Sud and all persons authorized, the absolute permission to take / reproduce photographs of you of which you may appear in whole or in part. By entering these premises, you are hereby giving up your rights to photographs that will be taken.”
See Photo Video Audio General poster (not intended to be used in health care sites where clients / patients may be present)
