QR codes may not always be so easy to use – they can get in the way and confuse people. But if you use them correctly, they provide extra value to your brand.
So to help you, here are 10 dos and don'ts for you to follow when using QR codes for events.
Dont's
Don't make your audience feel stupid.
Research has shown that users of older generations simply don't understand how to use a QR code. So if you intend your event to be held in a diverse population, you should include simple instructions. You may want to include information like how to scan the QR code and what website/link it will take them to.
Don't lose focus on the purpose of your event.
QR codes are now ubiquitous in events. They are being used to promote the event and encourage social media engagement. However, QR codes should not be an excuse to circumvent good event planning practices. QR codes are yet another tool that can enhance your event, but they should not become the focus of your event.
Don't use URLs that lead to auto-play videos.
Don't use URLs that lead to auto-play videos. Usually, this type of video is annoying to some people and may not work properly on a smartphone screen. Also, people might have a hard time watching or understanding a video while in a live event.
Don't make the code messy and small.
Don't make them messy and small. Small, crowded codes are hard for people to scan. This type of QR code won't generate much interest or engagement. You want people to scan them in the first place. So make sure that your code is big enough for people to see and use their camera phone easily without having to strain their eyes too much.
Coordinate with the staff assigned to event management so you can place the QR codes correctly.
Don't stick QR codes just anywhere.
When using QR codes for events, place them in areas where they don't interfere with other people's views during the event. For example, don't place the code right in front of the speaker or on a screen where it might block someone's view of the presentation.
Place the codes only in high-traffic areas or places where most attendees will see them easily.
Dos
Do use QR codes to improve the experience for your attendees.
Make sure that the QR code has a purpose. For example, the QR code should bring convenience to attendees. This means that it should give them something they can't get elsewhere or in other ways. For example, you can use QR codes to provide registrations or provide documents and media related to the event.
You can also use QR codes to get the attention of potential attendees. Consider posting QR codes that contain event details on certain places like bus stops, community boards, or social media websites.
Do use dynamic QR codes.
Always use dynamic QR codes for events because they can be edited and never expire. If you are running an event, you need to make sure the QR code is valid throughout the entirety of the event.
Do offer a clear call to action.
The user should know what to do once the code is scanned. Every time someone scans your code, think about the path you want him or her to take next.
Do make sure your visitors have online access.
Before you decide to use QR codes for events, check first if the facility or venue has access to the internet.
Most QR codes lead to online content. They won't have much of a use if the attendees have a hard time connecting to the internet.
Make your QR codes easy to scan.
It's important to make your QR codes easy to scan. Use contrasting colors for the text and background of your code. It helps if you have contrasting colors in your logo as well. Remember that your audience is not standing on the same plane as you. Therefore, do not place your QR code at a height where you are looking at it normally. Make sure that the QR code is eye-level with the audience (or slightly higher).
When you're creating QR codes using our online generator, you can test them as well. Our web-based QR code scanner works on any device. You only need to open it on any web browser and permit it to use your device camera.
The use of QR codes is innovative, fun, and extremely useful. Having said that, if implemented incorrectly, they can ruin the experience that you’re trying to create. So when you decide to implement QR codes for events, it’s important to consider the dos and don'ts we discussed in this blog post.
If you have more questions about QR codes, feel free to contact us!
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