8 Event QR Code Mistakes to Avoid
Key Takeaways
- QR codes can greatly improve the event experience for both guests and organizers
- Careful consideration should be used when incorporating QR codes in events
QR codes have helped to alleviate common burdens across many different fields, with the event planning space very much included. However, it’s not enough to simply make and print out a bunch of QR codes and hope for the best. You need to know what to do, and more importantly, what not to do.
A mistake in QR code creation can result in unsatisfied patrons, confused staff, and precious revenue wasted on printing and reprinting bad codes. But if you want to know what not to do, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this piece I will go over 8 common mistakes that can happen when using QR codes for event planning, and how to avoid them. So let’s get the party started!
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a type of image that has been encoded with data, usually in a pattern of monochrome squares or dots. These codes can then be scanned by a smart device, like a phone or tablet, in order to gain access to a variety of digital content.
QR codes can be used as an easy way to access websites, social media pages, WiFi logins, images, contact information, videos, payment services, and much more. They can be made easily through a service like QR Code Developer, are highly customizable, and can be affixed to anything you can print a simple picture on, like on a sticker, poster, flyer, card, sign, or advertisement.
How are QR codes used for events?
QR codes have become ubiquitous in the event industry, with their ease of use and convenience solving many problems for both event organizers and attendees alike. For events, QR codes can be used for:
• Ticketing • Registration • Check in • Parking • Advertisement • Gift registry • Payment • Additional information • Staff contact information
And more!
Mistakes to avoid
QR codes can be a valuable asset in event planning, but you still have to be smart in your usage of them. Here’s some common mistakes to avoid when dealing with QR codes for an event.
Poor visual design
When designing a QR code for any purpose, you want to make sure that the background and foreground colors have significant contrast, so that they can be easily scanned. You should also make sure that codes are obvious and that your audience will be able to recognise it as a QR code.
Failure to make codes visible
Your codes mean nothing if no one can see them. This is why placement is especially important. You want to make sure that people can see your codes so that they can use your codes.
For events, a good place to put a code would be on signs throughout the venue or on any paperwork, like programs, given to attendees.
Misunderstanding your audience
While QR codes provide convenience to many, there are still those who don’t quite understand the technology.
If your audience and attendees are elderly, not tech savvy, or come from an area where not everyone carries a smart device with them, then it would be wise to just not use QR codes at all.
Not providing instructions or additional information
If you just saw a QR code on a blank piece of paper with no indication as to what will happen when you scan it, then you’re probably not going to scan it.
Make sure that patrons know what each QR code is for by providing additional information. Things like WiFi Login, or Check In, will greatly reduce any possible confusion.
Lack of security
While QR codes are relatively safe, there are still some dangers to worry about when using them for an event. Namely, you want to make sure that no one is replacing your QR codes with fraudulent or malicious ones.
If you notice that your codes have been replaced or pasted over with new ones, then you should take them down right away. These fake codes can be devastating to those who may accidentally scan them, believing them to be legit.
Using codes where not needed
QR codes can simplify a lot of processes, but they shouldn’t be used absolutely everywhere. If the old fashioned way for something still works just fine and is more convenient, then you should stick with that.
Only use QR codes when you should, not whenever you can.
Failure to test codes
You might go through the whole process of making and printing codes, only to find that they link to the wrong page or are unscannable on certain devices. This is why you want to test your codes to make sure they work across the board.
Failure to do so can result in unsatisfied or confused attendees and revenue lost when you inevitably have to reprint all of your materials featuring the codes.
Bad surface attachment
QR codes are scannable under a wide range of circumstances, but you should still make sure to only put them on flat surfaces to ensure scannability. You want to make sure that the camera can see the entire code, or else it just won’t scan.
Additionally, it would also be wise to make sure each code is firmly attached to whatever surface it’s on, and won’t get blown away or fall off.
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