Connor Brooke
Though 2014 is drawing near, there is much of the population that still insist on using QR codes. And all its ridiculously outdated glory. From business cards, to company logos, to T-shirts that sport the website-location tech, these codes are still be blasted on every surface imaginable. As a QR code hater from the very beginning, it’s enough to make me want to give up on the Internet all together (well, almost). But now that upgraded, better working tactics have made their way into the world, these blotchy squares are a glaring reminder of things no longer necessary. (Or at all, IMO.)
For guilty parties and fellow haters alike, here are the top five reasons to nix the codes once and for all.
5. They’re Ugly
Really ugly. Who wants to stare at an undecipherable box when colors or words could be used instead? Worse is QR codes usually sit front and center, and in large fashion. Opt for something cleaner, like a web address – it’s a move that will make customers (and anyone with eyes) happy.
4. Your URL Shouldn’t Be That Hard to Locate
If there are so many pieces of punctuation in a URL that users can’t simply remember it or type it in, it’s time for a new URL.
3. Readers are Buggy
Not only do codes require an entire app to read them – the fact that smartphones have yet to come with them standard should be a big heads up – they’re tricky to use. Users have to stand absolutely still, cock their head at a 45-degree angle, and wink one eye, otherwise the reader simply won’t work.
2. They’re a One-Trick Pony
While text or logos can lead users to websites, social media profiles, etc., QR codes direct them only to one place: a specific URL. This forces owners to choose extremely wisely, while changing that web address later on can mean an entire string of outdated items.
1. People Don’t Use Them
When was the last time you heard, “So I followed this QR code,” or “This is the best QR code!”? Probably never, because people simply aren’t using them – customers too realize there are better ways to find a new website.
It’s high time we hopped off the QR code train – opt for a new, more sharable technology to enhance your website-based results.
This article was written for Business 2 Community by Connor Brooke.
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I am a business card designer (goo.gl/oKk92X if you would like to see samples) and almost every client asks for QR Codes! The problem for me is that people want too much information stuffed inside the QR Code which makes it almost unreadable by a scanner. I think there can be some great benefits, but feel that most don’t use them properly. Thanks for the thoughts on QR Codes!
I have tried large ones on home properties thinking it would take the place of flyers, but disappointing results. It seems so logical, but….. What do you suggest would take their place?
It is so much easier to scan the QR than putting in a long address… I know you can shorten it, but it still the same thing.
Hi Annette, A short URL would work great (for instance to a home page) — so long as its easy to navigate and has clear calls to action. It would also be easy to use social media platforms; Twitter handles are short and easy to follow and “Find us on Facebook” offers an extremely simple location. (Then those properties can be shared on those platforms, or have a “view our properties” link that’s easy to find.) Clearly listing the name of each property will also make it easier for users to find the specific house they’re looking for. Hope this helps!