Well, why I hate normal QR codes. Let me clarify..
I’ve seen a lot of less-than-thought-out uses of QR codes in marketing. More times than I’d like to count, I’ve scanned a QR code and had it take me to a page that was not optimized for my mobile phone. Or it took me to a page built entirely of Flash, which my dear iPhone cannot read. You name it, we’ve probably seen it (and groaned over it).
QR codes can be a great marketing tool, but businesses are getting caught up in the fad, and they’re giving QR codes a bad rap. QR codes should be a well thought out experience for your customer. What is the purpose of scanning? Exclusive content? Relative content (i.e. bus schedule, festival lineup, etc)? A discount? Adding someone’s contact information to your address book? These are all examples of good uses of QR codes. Sending me a map of where I already am? Taking me to a website that I could have easily just typed in? Showing me the exact artwork of the flyer that I’m currently holding in my hand? Non-mobile site? No directions on how to even scan? Only tested code on an iPhone 4S? These all belong in the QR code Hall of Shame.
I wonder what this guy’s code led to…
Escorts and QR Codes. Why not? We give him props for creativity!
…I can only hope the page was mobile-friendly!
At BestBuzz, we take QR codes to the next level. Before a code leaves our door, we ensure that it’s been tested on over 33 mobile platforms and that the experience is a valuable one for your brand and the customer. We brand each code and always have clear instructions for those who may not know what to do with a QR code. The codes we create for our clients are tested, strategic, and not slapped on as an after-thought.
Danielle Glick, of DG Design, has a few other points on How NOT to Use a QR Code in Your Marketing. Also, check out Mashable’s roundup of the 10 Funniest QR Code Fails. Love it!
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